The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has proposed a new benchmark price range for Jet-A1, the fuel used by aircraft, in response to persistent cost increases affecting domestic airlines.

After a technical review meeting held on April 24, the regulator advised that aviation fuel should sell between ₦1,760 and ₦1,988 per litre in Lagos, and ₦1,809 and ₦2,037 per litre in Abuja. The recommendation followed complaints from airline operators over the rising price of the product and its impact on flight operations.

According to the agency, the suggested pricing was calculated using the average Platts market rate recorded between April 17 and April 23, 2026. It noted that purchases made outside this period may cost more because of price swings in the international market, partly linked to tensions between the United States and Iran, as well as operational expenses faced by suppliers.

Beyond pricing, the regulator advised that petroleum marketers should supply aviation fuel directly to airline operators during this period. It also encouraged marketers to allow airlines up to 30 days to settle payments for delivered products in order to ease cash flow pressures within the sector.

NMDPRA further recommended engaging relevant authorities to review certain pricing components that were recently adjusted by refiners, with the aim of improving price stability. It also called for collaboration with aviation agencies to assess and streamline the number of approved airside fuel distributors based on defined standards.

In addition, the regulator urged the Ministry of Aviation to organise discussions between oil marketers and airline operators to address unresolved payment issues. It also proposed that aviation turbine kerosene be considered under the Federal Government’s naira-for-crude policy initiative.

The measures are part of broader efforts to stabilise the aviation fuel market and reduce disruptions to airline operations across the country.