The National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) highlighted the country’s loss of its travel market to neighbouring countries due to high airfares. President Susan Akporiaye noted that while this benefited travel operators, it resulted in lost tax revenue for Nigeria. She attributed the reduction in airfares within Nigeria to the resolution of trapped funds belonging to international airlines, the steady appreciation of the Naira, and the release of lower fare inventories by foreign carriers.
Akporiaye explained that the majority of ticket sales were not attributed to Nigeria, as airlines restricted lower fare inventories in the country while keeping them open elsewhere. This led to a decline in sales from Nigeria and prompted travel agencies to redirect their sales to other markets, such as Ghana. Despite passengers still travelling from Nigeria, tickets were often purchased in neighbouring countries, diverting revenue away from Nigeria.
During her tenure, Akporiaye faced challenges such as foreign airlines withholding funds, limitations on lower fare inventories for Nigerian agencies, and currency exchange instability. However, she emphasized the need for peace and unity within NANTA as elections approached, aiming to leave behind a legacy of harmony and cooperation. She stressed that NANTA’s future success depends on maintaining unity among its members.
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