Air cargo operators at Lagos airports are divided over the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s (FAAN) new cargo handling tariff of N20 per kilogram, which took effect on January 30, ending a rate that had remained unchanged since 2008.
While some operators support the increase as necessary to fund long-overdue infrastructure upgrades, others argue it is abrupt and excessive, triggering protests and partial industrial action at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) cargo terminals.
Supporters, including Faisal Jarmakani, Aramex Nigeria’s Managing Director, say the revised tariff, still lower than charges in neighbouring countries, could improve efficiency if revenues are transparently reinvested. Planned upgrades include better road access, modern scanning equipment, enhanced security, separation of export and import processes, and the rollout of a Cargo Community System and Truck Call-Up System.
Opponents, however, cite persistent congestion, staffing shortages, and delays, warning that higher tariffs alone will not fix structural inefficiencies. Some operators also protested that shipments already billed at the former N7/kg rate were suddenly subjected to the new charge, leading to financial losses.
FAAN says the adjustment was driven by inflation and exchange-rate pressures, noting that the naira has depreciated sharply since 2008. The authority pledged that at least 70 per cent of incremental revenue will be reinvested in cargo infrastructure and outlined strict KPIs, including reduced cargo dwell time and faster truck turnaround.
Despite the tensions, industry stakeholders agree that if FAAN delivers on its infrastructure and digitalisation promises, the reforms could position Nigeria as a stronger regional air cargo hub, though trust and accountability will be critical in the months ahead.
