Yuletide Travel Woes: Nigerians Grapple with Sky-High Fares Amid Holiday Rush
Despite economic challenges, Nigerians are trooping to bus stations and airports to journey to their hometowns for the Christmas and New Year celebrations. However, this year’s festive travels are marked by complaints of skyrocketing fares, both for road and air transport.
Road Travel: High Fares and Safety Concerns
Major bus parks across Lagos, including Yaba, Orile, Oshodi, and Maza-Maza, have seen an influx of travellers heading to various destinations, especially in the eastern parts of the country. However, transport fares have doubled, causing significant distress among passengers.
Luxury buses, which charged N23,000 for trips to the East just a week ago, now demand between N33,000 and N40,000 per passenger. Operators of mini-buses, such as Toyota Siennas and Hiace vehicles, have also hiked fares, with tickets now costing up to N55,000—a significant jump from N33,000.
Transporters attribute the price surge to increased fuel costs, wear and tear from poor road conditions, and the challenge of returning with nearly empty buses after dropping passengers in rural areas.
“Fuel prices are high, and maintaining buses is expensive. We can’t operate at a loss,” explained a ticketing officer at a popular Lagos terminal.
Many passengers have expressed frustration but are still making the journey to reconnect with family and loved ones. “It’s a sacrifice we make for our children to know their roots,” one traveller remarked while boarding a bus with her family.
Air Travel: Fully Booked Flights and Astronomical Costs
The situation at airports is no different. Domestic flights are fully booked, and the cost of available tickets has soared. Airlines like Air Peace and United Nigeria now charge between N200,000 and N400,000 for one-way tickets to destinations such as Anambra, Owerri, and Uyo.
For example, Air Peace flights from Lagos to Anambra are unavailable until after December 25, with tickets costing as much as N285,800. Similarly, flights on Ibom Air and United Nigeria are either sold out or priced beyond the reach of many.
Some passengers who booked their tickets early are relieved, while others lament the last-minute price hikes. “I booked in October, but the prices now are shocking,” said Sia, a traveller from Abuja to Lagos.
Calls for Government Intervention
Travelers are urging the federal government to reintroduce the 50% fare reduction implemented during the last festive season to alleviate the financial burden. Although the government announced a similar palliative this year, transport operators claim it has yet to be implemented due to pending negotiations.
Mechanics and Technicians See a Boom
While travellers struggle with high fares, auto mechanics and vulcanizers are reaping the benefits. Many vehicle owners are opting to service their cars to avoid the costly fares. “This is our peak season. People want their cars in top shape for the holidays,” said Ola, a mechanic in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos.
Braving the Roads Despite Risks
With air travel costs out of reach for many, road travel remains the most viable option despite fears of insecurity and harassment by security personnel. Travelers are bracing themselves for the challenges, driven by the desire to spend the holidays with family and loved ones.
The festive season, traditionally a time for joy and reunion, has become a period of financial strain for many Nigerians. Yet, the determination to celebrate with family underscores the enduring spirit of the season.
