In a significant development for air travelers in Kwara State, Overland Airways—the main commercial airline operating from Ilorin International Airport—has announced plans to review its current fare structure on the Lagos–Ilorin and Abuja–Ilorin routes. This move comes in response to a direct appeal made by former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, who expressed concerns over the high cost of air travel on these essential domestic routes.
Saraki’s Intervention
Dr. Saraki, a former governor of Kwara State and influential national political figure, reportedly reached out to Overland Airways after receiving multiple complaints from constituents, travelers, and business stakeholders about the exorbitant airfare being charged for the short-haul flights connecting Ilorin with Lagos and Abuja. Many described the current fare levels as prohibitive, especially given the limited travel options available in and out of Ilorin.
Saraki emphasised the importance of accessible and affordable air travel, not just for convenience, but also as a critical driver of regional economic development, tourism, and investment.
Overland Responds
In response, Overland Airways acknowledged the concerns raised and committed to undertaking a comprehensive review of its pricing model for the routes in question. In a brief statement, the airline noted:
“We value the feedback from all our stakeholders and are committed to providing affordable, safe, and efficient air travel services. In light of recent discussions, we are re-evaluating our fare structure on the Lagos–Ilorin and Abuja–Ilorin routes to ensure it remains fair and accessible to the traveling public.”
Broader Context
Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, relies heavily on Overland Airways for air connectivity, as it is the only commercial airline currently operating regular passenger flights to and from the city. This lack of competition has long been cited as a reason for persistently high airfares on the route.
With growing demand for travel, particularly among students, civil servants, business travelers, and medical patients, the call for more competitive pricing has gained traction. Critics have also called for greater regulatory oversight and the entry of additional carriers to boost competition and bring down prices.
What Next?
While Overland Airways has not yet provided a specific timeline or details of the expected fare adjustments, stakeholders are hopeful that the review will result in more affordable ticket prices in the near future.
Dr. Saraki has urged the airline to act swiftly and transparently, stating that “affordable air travel should not be a luxury in a state like Kwara that is striving for inclusive growth.”
Travelers and residents are now eagerly awaiting concrete changes, hopeful that the intervention will mark a turning point for air travel affordability in the region.
