Juliet Ezeh
The President of the National Association of Travel Agents of Nigeria (NANTA), Yinka Folami, has criticised foreign airlines for insisting on dollar-denominated ticket sales in Nigeria, describing the practice as “disrespectful” and harmful to the nation’s currency.
Speaking ahead of NANTA’s Annual General Meeting and golden jubilee celebrations, Folami said dollar-only ticketing undermines Nigeria’s economic sovereignty and places a disproportionate burden on travel agents and passengers.
“When airlines sell in dollars only in our sovereign nation, it is disrespectful. Even if BASA allows it, what happens to our naira? This is unacceptable,” he said, highlighting the urgent need for policies that protect local currency and economic interests.
Impact on Travel Agents and Consumers
Folami explained that the policy directly affects Nigerian travel agents, many of whom are already grappling with declining patronage and rising refund obligations. Global crises, including the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, have further compounded these challenges, as that region accounts for 30–40 per cent of Nigeria’s travel traffic.
“This war disrupts travel and forces agents to process large-scale refunds, including commissions, which puts immense financial pressure on our members,” Folami said.
Economic Implications
Experts note that dollar-only ticketing drives demand for foreign currency, weakening the naira and increasing costs for Nigerian travellers. By contrast, countries such as Kenya and South Africa require airlines to sell tickets in local currency to protect domestic markets and maintain financial stability.
NANTA’s Advocacy and Market Protection Efforts
Beyond highlighting the problem, NANTA has actively engaged airlines and government authorities, including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, to push for reforms. A major milestone has been the campaign against cross-border ticket sales, which reclaimed lost revenue for local travel agents.
“Cross-border trading was taking 50 per cent of our market. Through sustained advocacy, we have forced corrections and restored market balance,” Folami said.
Looking Ahead
As NANTA marks its 50th anniversary, Folami reaffirmed the association’s commitment to fairness, market protection, and defending Nigeria’s economic sovereignty.
“We will continue to stand for what is right for our members and for the country,” he said, emphasizing the association’s determination to implement reforms that strengthen the travel industry and protect local operators.
Key Takeaway
Dollar-denominated ticket sales may benefit foreign airlines, but they hurt Nigeria’s economy, the naira, and local travel agents. Experts say coordinated efforts between government regulators, local operators, and industry associations like NANTA are critical to ensuring fair play, affordable travel, and the protection of domestic revenue.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.