The Vice President of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has urged President Bola Tinubu to review taxes and charges imposed on airlines, warning that excessive levies are threatening the survival of operators in the sector.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE News, Onyema argued that some charges, particularly the five per cent passenger service charge collected by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), have placed a heavy burden on airlines.
According to him, several Nigerian airlines have collapsed over the years due to mounting operational costs and unfavourable policies.
“These taxes and charges have been responsible for the demise of many airlines.”
The Air Peace founder called on the Federal Government to establish an independent committee comprising aviation experts, technocrats and industry stakeholders to review existing charges and recommend reforms.
Beyond aviation, Onyema also weighed in on the issue of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, urging Nigerians to adopt an economic boycott of the country.
He criticised repeated attacks on Nigerians and other foreign nationals, accusing South African authorities of failing to do enough to prevent such incidents.
While supporting a firm response, Onyema rejected calls for violence or retaliation against South African businesses operating in Nigeria.
Instead, he encouraged Nigerians to withdraw investment and patronage from South Africa as a peaceful form of protest.
According to him, an economic boycott would send a stronger message than destructive actions or street demonstrations.
The aviation executive maintained that Nigerians should avoid investing in South Africa while continuing to embrace lawful and non-violent means of expressing dissatisfaction.
Source: ARISE News
