FAAN cargo tariff dispute escalates as agents suspend operations over planned 257% increase at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos

Cargo agents at Murtala Muhammed Airport have suspended cargo processing in protest against the FAAN cargo tariff dispute, following the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s decision to raise charges from 7 naira per kilogram to 25 naira per kilogram.

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The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders confirmed the suspension on Monday, while other freight groups noted that the new tariff has been temporarily suspended pending further discussions.

FAAN notified operators on January 27, 2026, of the revised tariff regime, scheduled to take effect on February 2, 2026, sparking resistance from cargo agents.

The increase represents a 257 per cent hike, far exceeding the 25 per cent guideline set by the Federal Government for such adjustments.

Deputy President of NAGAFF, Segun Musa, said agents downed tools because they refused to accept the new rate. “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,” Musa said.

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

He noted that meetings with the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc and Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc had taken place to discuss the dispute.

Officials from FAAN’s Cargo Development and Services department, supported by the Department of State Services, were reportedly present at the Hajj and cargo terminals to implement the new tariff.

Ogunnojemite argued that any increase should remain within the 25 per cent federal guideline.

“If FAAN is suspending the new tariff, they should inform us by letter. Any unofficial communication is a rumour. We are still waiting for FAAN to take the right step to return to the old rates,” he said.

FAAN spokesperson Henry Agbebire, however, insisted the authority would not reverse the increase.

“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.

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The dispute underscores rising tensions between cargo operators and airport authorities, with negotiations and official communications expected to determine how quickly normal operations resume at the nation’s busiest airport.