Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) has raised its cargo tariff from ₦7 to ₦20 per kilogram. This 185.7% increase has drawn sharp criticism from Nigeria’s freight forwarding sector. In response, major industry groups are demanding urgent talks with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). They say the move causes pricing distortion and operational disruption.
At a joint press briefing in Lagos, representatives from ANCLA, NAGAFF, APFFLON, and NAFFAC voiced strong objections. Specifically, they cited three main issues: no prior consultation, possible double taxation, and a hike far above the federal 25% review limit.
For instance, ANCLA President Temitope Akindele called the increase “over 100% and unacceptable.” Likewise, NAGAFF Deputy President Segun Musa warned it could reduce cargo volumes. He added that the policy is business-unfriendly without dialogue.
Moreover, the financial impact is immediate. A 500kg shipment now costs ₦10,000 instead of ₦3,500—an extra ₦6,500. Similarly, a 2,000kg consignment adds ₦26,000 in fees. These increases strain cash flow, especially for small operators.
Furthermore, forwarders say concessioned handlers already collect similar fees on FAAN’s behalf. Therefore, this new charge may result in double billing. Akindele noted the original ₦7 fee was tied to land compensation after the 2010 demolition of agents’ offices. He stressed that any change must involve negotiation.
From a logistics view, the hike affects three areas. First, direct shipment costs may force price hikes. Second, landed cost calculations will shift. Third, some shippers might switch to road or sea for time-sensitive cargo.
Accordingly, industry leaders proposed clear next steps. They want immediate talks with FAAN and Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo. They also call for an audit of concession agreements. Additionally, they request a temporary pause or phased rollout. Finally, they demand transparency on how new revenue will improve cargo operations.
For logistics managers, practical steps include updating cost models and checking for duplicate fees. They should also explore consolidation to offset per-kilogram increases. Some may even test alternative routing through other West African airports.
While FAAN says tariffs needed updating after more than a decade, the lack of consultation backfired. Thus, if unresolved, this dispute could hurt MMIA’s competitiveness. It might even push cargo to other hubs.
In summary, the MMIA cargo tariff surge is more than a price change. It tests regulatory fairness and industry trust. How FAAN responds will shape Nigeria’s air logistics future.
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