Umuahia, Abia State |December 11, 2025 —
The Chief Whip of the Abia State House of Assembly and Member representing Umuahia South State Constituency, Hon. Emeka Obioma, has expressed strong support for the recent motion initiated by Hon. Obi Aguocha in the House of Representatives aimed at reducing the escalating cost of domestic airline tickets and air ambulance services nationwide.
Recall that Hon. Aguocha’s Motion of Urgent National Importance has drawn widespread commendation after the National Assembly approved key interventions designed to protect citizens from arbitrary price hikes, particularly during peak travel seasons such as Christmas and Easter. The approved measures include the creation of a transparent mechanism for determining airline operational costs, the introduction of a tax relief structure for operators, and a directive for the Central Bank of Nigeria to prioritise foreign exchange allocation to airlines at concessionary rates.
Reacting to the development, Hon. Emeka Obioma commended Hon. Aguocha’s courage, foresight, and people focused leadership. He noted that the high cost of flight tickets has become a major hindrance for families wishing to travel, especially those who depend on air transport due to distance, security concerns, or urgent health needs.
Hon. Obioma said the motion reflects an understanding of the struggles faced by Nigerians.
“The cost of air travel has risen to levels that make it difficult for ordinary citizens to reunite with their families. By stepping forward with this motion, Hon Aguocha has stood on the side of fairness, equity, and the well being of the Nigerian people,” he stated.
He noted that the approval of the motion demonstrates a legislature that listens and responds to the challenges affecting its citizens.
Hon. Obioma expressed hope that the structured tax relief mechanism endorsed by the House will help airlines stabilise their running costs while ensuring that Nigerians benefit from reduced ticket prices. He also applauded the decision to involve the CBN in the foreign exchange allocation process, describing it as a practical approach that addresses one of the core drivers of high airfare pricing.
According to him, the move to refer the matter to the House Committee on Aviation for further review shows that the National Assembly is committed to thorough, sustainable, and long term solutions.
“This is not just a quick fix. It is the beginning of a wider reform that will improve how the aviation sector serves Nigerians,” he said.
“I am confident that this effort will lead to tangible relief for travellers, especially during festive periods when the need to travel becomes most urgent.”
Hon. Obioma concluded by calling on all levels of government to collaborate in easing the transportation burden on citizens. He emphasised that affordable mobility remains essential to national cohesion, security, and economic development.
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