The Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, has begged to suspend the planned shutdown of operations over the high cost of aviation fuel.

Mr Sirika, in a statement issued by his media aide, James Odaudu, on Saturday in Lagos, urged the airlines to consider the effect shutting down operations would have on Nigerians and global travellers.

“As the ministry charged with the industry, we are greatly concerned about the difficulties being faced by the airlines in procuring aviation fuel which has resulted in spiraling costs in air transportation in the immediate past.

“Unfortunately, the issue of fuel supply is not within the purview of the ministry, so the much it can do in the present situation is to engage with agencies, institutions and individuals in positions.

“This is to provide succour to the airlines. This is already being done by the relevant team led by the minister.”

The airlines had considered shutting down operations indefinitely from Monday due to the increased aviation fuel price which rose from N190 to N700 per litre.

Mr Sirika assured Nigerians, especially stakeholders, that President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration remained stoic in its commitment to the creation and sustenance of an environment that promotes the growth of the aviation industry.

He said the president was committed to the development of the industry where major players such as the airlines could operate in a profitable and competitive market. 

(NAN)