Abuja, Dec. 11, 2025 – The Economic Community of West African States Commission (ECOWAS) is to abolish air ticket taxes in the sub-region from January 1, 2026.
Chris Appiah, the ECOWAS the Director of Transport and Telecommunications, disclosed this on Wednesday while speaking to journalists in Abuja
He said this was one of the decisions of the regional body to enhance regional integration by reducing the high costs of flights which had long been a barrier to trade and economic integration.
Appiah said the sub-region had the most expensive air transport services, adding that these taxes were against the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s guidelines.
“From 1st January 2026, the heads of state have agreed that all member states should remove taxes on air transport,” the director confirmed.
“The move is part of ECOWAS’ broader strategy to strengthen regional integration, which relies heavily on connectivity.
“ECOWAS stands for regional integration, and regional integration rides on connectivity. One of the main modes of connecting our member states is air transport.
“What these taxes do is suppress demand, and air transport is not growing to support tourism, health, education, and other sectors.
“We are working with the airlines themselves to make sure that when the taxes and charges are removed, they will also, in turn, reduce their tickets, so that the citizens of West Africa can travel freely,” he said.
