Air cargo operators at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, are sharply divided over the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s (FAAN) decision to raise cargo port charges to ₦20 per kilogram, the first revision in more than 15 years.
While some operators argued the increase is necessary to fund long-overdue infrastructure upgrades and improve efficiency at cargo terminals, others insisted that the adjustment was too steep and poorly timed, warning that it could worsen existing operational bottlenecks.
Industry players told NATIONAL ECONOMY that congestion, delayed shipment processing and staffing gaps have persisted at MMIA cargo terminals for years, raising doubts about whether higher tariffs alone can resolve structural weaknesses.
Faisal Jarmakani, Managing Director of Aramex Nigeria, said the increase could be justified if it translates into visible improvements.
“When compared to neighbouring countries such as Ghana, our fees will remain lower even after the increase. If the additional revenue is used to deliver meaningful improvements, the impact on customers should be manageable and ultimately beneficial for all parties,” he said.
However, other operators, speaking anonymously, said inefficiencies had not been addressed even under the old pricing regime.
“Even before this increase, inefficiencies like congestion and limited staffing slowed operations. The new tariff alone won’t fix these issues if the fundamentals don’t improve,” one operator said.
Peace Azagba, a registered agent with Mayckles Cargo Logistics, said the review could help sanitise the system by enforcing proper registration of cargo agents at the terminals.
Monday, February 9, 2026
Operators Push Back As FAAN Implements First Cargo Tariff Review
