FAAN Adjusts Cargo Tariff Increase at Lagos International Airport Following Industry Consultations
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has implemented a significant revision to its proposed cargo port charge adjustments at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. Following extensive dialogue with industry stakeholders, the authority has reduced the planned increase from N20 to N15 per kilogram, marking a compromise between operational needs and business concerns.
Stakeholder Engagement Leads to Revised Tariff Structure
This decision emerged from a crucial stakeholders' meeting held on February 9, 2026, at the MMIA Terminal 2 conference room. The gathering brought together FAAN officials and customs-licensed cargo agents operating at Nigeria's busiest international airport. Henry Agbebire, FAAN's director of public affairs and consumer protection, confirmed that both parties reached agreement on the revised port charge of N15 per kilogram.
The initial proposal had faced substantial opposition from cargo agents who warned that the higher charges could negatively impact business operations and broader trade activities across Nigeria. Agents expressed particular concern about potential declines in cargo traffic, noting that Nigeria has already experienced reductions in air cargo volumes in recent periods.
Comprehensive Tariff Review and Industry Response
FAAN had originally announced plans to implement a general tariff review effective from February 2, 2026, citing improvements in operational stability and the closure of significant revenue leakages within the organization. The proposed adjustments covered multiple aspects of cargo operations including port charges, air cargo fees for imports and exports, trans-shipment services, courier and perishable goods handling, and cargo vehicle surcharges.
Under the initial framework, port charges were scheduled to increase from N7 to N20 per kilogram, while air cargo fees would rise from N5 to N15 per kilogram. Charges for trans-shipment, courier, and perishable goods were also slated to double from N20 to N40 per kilogram. These proposed increases prompted cargo agents to threaten protests, particularly against the potential jump from N7 to N25 per kilogram that had been discussed earlier.
Balancing Infrastructure Development with Business Viability
According to Agbebire, the revised charge represents a middle ground between FAAN's original proposal and the existing N7 per kilogram rate. He emphasized that the outcome reflects constructive dialogue and shared responsibility between the aviation authority and cargo operators. The agreement aims to support improvements in the ease of doing business at the airport while simultaneously facilitating the development of cargo infrastructure.
FAAN has reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing engagement with stakeholders and adherence to its SEDI principles—safety, efficiency, development, and innovation. The authority also highlighted its dedication to modernizing cargo terminal facilities and expressed appreciation for the cooperation demonstrated by customs-licensed cargo agents during the consultation process.
Broader Context of Aviation Sector Reforms
This tariff adjustment follows FAAN's earlier announcement of a general tariff review on June 23, 2025, when the authority cited financial losses resulting from outdated charge structures. FAAN maintains that the proposed increases were justified by internal reforms and improved revenue systems that had been implemented throughout the organization.
The authority expressed optimism about sustained collaboration with industry partners to grow Nigeria's air cargo sector, recognizing the critical role that efficient cargo operations play in national economic development. This revision demonstrates how regulatory bodies can respond to industry feedback while pursuing necessary infrastructure improvements and revenue enhancements.
