Nigeria's FCCPC intensifies probe into airlines' skyrocketing domestic airfares

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) in Nigeria has escalated its inquiry into the pricing structures employed by domestic airlines, responding to significant public outcry over surging airfares. This deepened investigation, confirmed by Mr. Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs, aims to address widespread concerns regarding the cost of air travel within the country.

Public dissatisfaction stems from what appears to be coordinated or exploitative pricing tactics by several airlines, particularly on routes connecting Nigeria's South-East and South-South regions as the festive season commences. While the ongoing probe targets operators on these specific routes, it proceeds independently of a prior court action initiated by Air Peace, a major Nigerian airline, which sought to prevent the Commission from examining its pricing models earlier this year.

Mr. Tunji Bello, FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, clarified the Commission's role, stating it is not a price control board but is empowered by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018 to prevent consumer exploitation. Sections 17(b) and 17(e) of the Act enable the FCCPC to monitor economic activities for anti-competitive or anti-consumer practices and conduct necessary investigations. The FCCPA establishes a framework to protect consumers from excessive, opaque, or collusive pricing while fostering competitive markets.

Given the arbitrary nature of recent airfare increases, the Nigerian FCCPC is meticulously reviewing pricing patterns and the underlying reasons for reported hikes. The Commission has affirmed its readiness to implement appropriate enforcement measures should evidence confirm any breaches of the Act, assuring the public of further updates on the aviation investigation.