Table of Contents
- Announcement from NANTA President
- Foreign Currency Sales Issue
- Government's Response
- Supporting Local Airlines
The President of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies, NANTA, Yinka Folami, has announced that the Federal Government will soon put an end to the sale of tickets in dollars by foreign airlines.
Folami made this statement during a cultural and tourism program in Lagos over the weekend, labeling the cross-border trading in foreign currency as “an offense against the economy.”
“Those of us in the aviation sector recognize that unless we establish a robust Nigerian carrier to fill the gap, these issues will continue. I am pleased to inform Nigerians that the government is actively addressing the issue of ticket sales in foreign currency, and that is the most recent update on the situation,” Folami stated.
He contended that the actions taken by foreign airlines violate regulations and exert undue pressure on the naira and foreign exchange.
He mentioned that the government is now tackling these challenges following complaints from travel agencies regarding the situation.
He clarified that there is no longer a need to sell tickets in foreign currency within Nigeria, describing this practice as outdated and likely to disappear from the country’s aviation industry soon.
Folami also emphasized the importance of having national airlines to operate in the market and urged Nigerians to support Air Peace, noting that the airline has boldly initiated its London routes from Lagos and Abuja.
According to him, it is a patriotic duty for Nigerians to support and pray for the success and sustainability of the airline.
Why is the government ending the sale of tickets in dollars?
The government is addressing the issue to protect the economy and stabilize the naira, as selling tickets in foreign currency creates pressure on the local currency.
What is the role of Air Peace in this situation?
Air Peace is taking initiative by launching new international routes, which helps strengthen the aviation sector and encourages national pride in supporting local airlines.
