A major storm is brewing within Nigeria’s aviation sector as the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) has publicly condemned the persistent refusal of three international airlines to sell flight tickets in the local currency as of today, 30th of September 2025. The association has labeled the exclusive use of US dollars for ticket sales as a blatant act of disrespect towards Nigeria’s sovereignty and a damaging practice that actively undermines the naira’s stability.
In a strongly-worded statement, NANTA President, Yinka Folarin, articulated the collective outrage of the nation’s travel professionals. He criticized what he described as the “arrogant stance” of a small group of foreign carriers who have deliberately kept the naira off their ticketing platforms.
This refusal persists despite notable improvements in the foreign exchange market, which have been acknowledged by the broader aviation industry. Folarin clarified that this is no longer a widespread industry problem but a targeted action by a select few. “Only about three airlines are still selling exclusively in dollars,” he revealed, noting that while professional ethics prevent NANTA from naming them, their actions speak volumes. “They are punishing the naira, excluding it from trade within its own country,” he asserted.
Folarin emphasized that his position is not merely that of an industry leader but also of a patriotic Nigerian deeply opposed to the “dollarisation” of domestic services. He framed the airlines’ policy as a direct challenge to the nation’s economic autonomy, coming at a particularly sensitive time when the naira is showing encouraging signs of recovery due to recent government reforms.
He argued that this refusal to accept the local currency sabotages the concerted efforts of citizens, businesses, and financial institutions working tirelessly to stabilize the economy. “There is no justifiable reason for this anymore,” Folarin declared, pointing to improved liquidity, transparent processes, and the fact that over 30 other airlines are successfully repatriating funds without issue.
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Echoing these concerns, aviation expert Group Captain John Ojikutu (retd.) suggested the issue might be linked to unresolved trapped funds. He, however, issued a stern warning, stating that if the government has cleared its outstanding debts to these carriers, their dollar-only policy is unjustifiable and must be halted immediately. “I think this is happening because some people may be benefiting from it internally. That cannot stand if we are no longer owing them. It is wrong and must be corrected without delay,” Ojikutu stated.
The growing consensus among stakeholders is clear: the continued rejection of the naira is more than a commercial dispute, it is an affront to national pride and economic security. As the Federal Government continues its push to restore the currency’s strength, all eyes are on the non-compliant airlines, with industry leaders demanding they fall in line and afford the naira the respect it is due within its own borders.
