FAAN Agrees to Lower Cargo Tariffs After Industrial Action by Freight Forwarders Disrupts Operations at Lagos Airport

After eight days of halted operations at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has agreed to lower cargo tariffs, prompting a return to work for frustrated air cargo agents.

The decision comes after prolonged negotiations between the airport authority and representatives of cargo operators, who had staged a strike over proposed tariff hikes.

The stand-off began when FAAN announced plans to raise cargo tariffs from N7 to N20 per kilogramme, a move that sparked outrage among agents.

Work ground to a halt as agents refused to process cargo, disrupting supply chains and creating tension at Nigeria’s busiest airport.

Negotiations Yield Compromise

The breakthrough came during a stakeholders’ meeting chaired by FAAN’s Director of Cargo Development and Services, Mr Lekan Thomas.

Following constructive discussions, both parties agreed on a revised port charge of N15 per kilogramme — a compromise that falls between the previously existing N7 and the proposed N20 per kilogramme.

FAAN confirmed the decision in a statement issued by Henry Agbebire, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, emphasizing that the resolution “reflects the spirit of dialogue, partnership, and shared responsibility.”

Frank Ogunojemite, President of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics, welcomed the move, noting that it satisfied cargo agents and cleared the way for the resumption of operations.

“With this decision, cargo clearing activities will resume from today,” he said.

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Strike Disruptions and Outstanding Issues

While the tariff dispute has been resolved, discussions are ongoing with ground handling companies, including Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc and the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc, over accumulated rent and demurrage charges that piled up during the strike.

Ogunojemite expressed optimism about reaching an amicable resolution, emphasizing the importance of balancing the rights of handlers with the operational needs of cargo agents.

The eight-day disruption affected a wide range of goods, from perishable food items to industrial supplies, highlighting the critical role of cargo agents in keeping Nigeria’s imports and exports moving efficiently.

FAAN’s Commitment to Sustainable Infrastructure

The agreement also signals FAAN’s commitment to sustainable airport and cargo infrastructure development.

By balancing tariff adjustments with operational realities, the airport authority aims to support both business growth and infrastructure improvement.

Agbebire noted that the compromise “will enhance the ease of doing business at MMA while supporting sustainable airport and cargo infrastructure development.”

What’s Next?

Cargo agents have resumed work following the tariff adjustment, but close monitoring will continue to ensure that operations proceed smoothly and that any residual financial disputes with ground handlers are resolved quickly.

Stakeholders will likely focus on improving dialogue channels to prevent future disruptions and ensure fair, transparent pricing structures for cargo services.

For passengers and businesses relying on timely deliveries, the resolution is a welcome development, promising more predictable logistics at one of West Africa’s busiest airports.

Summary

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has reduced cargo tariffs at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, from the initially proposed N20 to N15 per kilogramme following an eight-day strike by air cargo agents.

The dispute arose from FAAN’s original tariff hike, which agents said would undermine their operations.

The resolution was reached during a stakeholders’ meeting chaired by FAAN’s Director of Cargo Development and Services, with the airport authority emphasizing partnership and dialogue.

Cargo clearing has resumed, though negotiations continue with ground handling companies over accumulated rent and demurrage fees.

FAAN described the outcome as a step toward supporting sustainable airport infrastructure and enhancing the ease of doing business at the airport.