Cargo Agents Halt Operations Over FAAN Tariff Hike

Cargo agents at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, have suspended operations in protest against the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s (FAAN) decision to raise cargo tariffs.

The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) confirmed the halt, while another freight group said the new tariff had been temporarily suspended pending further talks.

FAAN had announced in a January 27 letter that revised tariffs would take effect on February 2, increasing rates from N7 per kilogram to N25—a 257 per cent hike.

The agents immediately raised objections, writing to security agencies including Customs, Immigration, and the DSS.

Deputy President of NAGAFF, Segun Musa, explained the agents’ stance: “Our people have decided not to process cargo because they have refused to accept the new price. We are watching from afar because our people are not ready to pay the new rate; it is our general resolve.”

Frank Ogunnojemite, President of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics, added that FAAN had not yet enforced the increase.

“For now, the new rate is suspended, and we are still on the ground. We still hope to have a meeting with FAAN on the issue,” he said.

Ogunnojemite noted that FAAN officials, supported by DSS personnel, had visited the cargo terminals to enforce the tariff.

He insisted that any increase should not exceed 25 per cent, in line with Federal Government guidelines. “Even any increment in rates should not be more than 25 per cent, not a 257 per cent increase,” he stressed.

Despite the resistance, FAAN spokesperson Henry Agbebire maintained the agency’s position.

“Aside from a few attempts to create a scene, operations were smooth today, and this is not something FAAN is considering reversing. The agents are complying, and we are forging ahead with the new tariff,” he said.