Middle East Conflict Gulping 40% of Nigeria’s Travel Traffic — NANTA
The National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) has raised an alarm over the escalating geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran, revealing that the conflict is severely crippling the nation’s aviation sector and eroding the revenues of local travel practitioners.
Speaking at a press briefing to announce the association’s 50th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Golden Jubilee celebration, NANTA President, Mr. Yinka Folami, disclosed that the Middle East remains a critical corridor, accounting for approximately 30% to 40% of Nigeria’s total air traffic.
Economic Fallout of Geopolitical Tensions
Folami painted a stark picture of the financial strain placed on travel agents, noting that disruptions in the region lead to immediate and substantial losses.
“Anytime there is this kind of disruption, we are the first to suffer,” Folami stated. “It is affecting our business in no small measure. Beyond the drop in passenger numbers, we are burdened with the financial weight of full refunds, including our earned commissions. We can only pray for peace.”
War Against Cross-Border Trading
The NANTA President also highlighted significant strides made by the current administration in sanitizing the local industry. He specifically pointed to the successful crackdown on cross-border ticket sales, which he described as a “sin” that previously siphoned off nearly 50% of the Nigerian travel market.
According to Folami, the association’s “three-legged tripod” strategy—focused on market protection, the integrity of NANTA, and fair play—has forced industry stakeholders to implement necessary corrections.
“Our advocacy, supported by the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has ensured that our market is regaining its rightful place,” he added.
Sovereignty and the “Dollarization” of Tickets
In a firm rebuke of international carriers, Folami criticized the practice of selling flight tickets exclusively in foreign currencies within Nigeria. He labeled the trend a “disrespect” to the nation’s sovereignty and a direct threat to the stability of the Naira.
“It is disrespectful that some airlines sell only in dollars in a sovereign nation like ours,” Folami argued. “Even if Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASA) allow certain flexibilities, we must consider the impact on our local currency and our people. It is simply not convenient or acceptable.”
As the association prepares for its landmark 50th anniversary, the leadership reaffirmed its commitment to aggressive advocacy to protect the interests of Nigerian travel agents and the broader economy.
