By SpringNewsNG | June 26, 2025

Ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran have thrown summer travel plans for many Nigerians into disarray, forcing cancellations, rescheduling, and a sharp rise in international airfare costs.

Travel disruptions, flight diversions, and safety concerns have become widespread as the Middle East conflict escalates. Many airlines that previously offered direct flights now operate multiple stopovers, significantly increasing travel time and costs.

A Nigerian passenger recently returning from South Africa told BusinessDay that his return journey included six stopovers, with hotel stays covered by the airline due to extended delays.

Airfares Skyrocket Amid Rising Operational Costs

Airlines have responded by raising ticket prices to cover increased fuel, accommodation, and security-related expenses. Economy class tickets for Lagos to London flights, previously priced between ₦1.2 million and ₦2 million, now range from ₦2 million to as high as ₦5 million. Lagos-Dubai fares have also surged, with prices rising from ₦1.5 million–₦2.2 million to ₦4.5 million.

Tickets from Lagos to New York, once between ₦1.4 million and ₦2.5 million, now go up to ₦3.8 million for economy class and up to ₦17.5 million for business class.

Middle East Airlines and Pilgrimage Travel Severely Affected

The closure and subsequent reopening of Qatari airspace significantly impacted Middle East airlines, which account for over 30% of summer flights from Nigeria. Many Nigerian travellers, especially those heading to the Middle East, have postponed or cancelled their trips altogether.

Bankole Bernard, Group Managing Director of Finchglow Holdings, said travellers are now more concerned about their safety than airfare. “This is usually our peak season, but travellers are taking precautions. Missiles are flying around, and people don’t want to risk their lives.”

Religious tourism has also suffered. Thousands of Nigerian Christian pilgrims are stranded in Israel, while many others have put their pilgrimage plans on hold.

“The Christian pilgrimage has been suspended for now due to the conflict. Travel to Israel has been completely disrupted,” said Olumide Ohunayo, director of research at Zenith Travels.

Delays, Rescheduling, and Heightened Airport Security

According to Ohunayo, the ripple effect of the crisis includes longer security checks, rescheduled flights, and rebooking costs. “Travellers are paying more not just in fares, but for delays, hotel accommodations, and itinerary changes,” he explained.

Seyi Adewale, CEO of Mainstream Cargo Limited, added that the fear of potential aircraft downings, as seen in Iran and Azerbaijan in the past, has added to the anxiety. “It’s understandable that people are postponing both business and personal trips to avoid any risks,” he said.

Summer Travel Uncertainty Looms

Two months ago, international airlines offered discounts and promotional fares due to a low travel season. However, the reverse is now the case, with summer fares skyrocketing due to increased risk and rerouted flights.

Susan Akporaiye, CEO of Topaz Travels and Tours, confirmed that while many Nigerians initially opted for Qatar Airways due to fewer visa restrictions compared to the UAE, current fears have caused hesitation.

“People are sceptical but still hopeful. As long as no new airspace restrictions are enforced, some travel may continue,” she said.

Despite reassurances from travel agents, concerns over safety, missed connections, and higher costs are making 2025 one of the most uncertain summer travel seasons for Nigerians in recent memory.