Nigeria is supporting a major ECOWAS initiative that will significantly reduce the cost of air travel across West Africa by 2026. Under the new directive, all member states are required to scrap air transport taxes and lower key charges beginning January next year.

The reform follows the December 2024 ECOWAS Summit in Abuja, where Heads of State and Government adopted a Supplementary Act mandating the changes. The goal is to make regional air travel more affordable, boost connectivity, and enhance economic integration.

Under the act, member states must abolish existing air transport taxes while reducing passenger service and security charges by 25 percent. Officials say the move could ease financial burdens on travelers and encourage more competition among airlines.

Aviation experts have welcomed the reform, noting that high taxes and charges remain one of the biggest barriers to affordable air travel in the region. The new policy is expected to set the stage for a more accessible and efficient aviation market across West Africa.