Findings indicate that FAAN is set to raise cargo tariffs from ₦7 per kilogram to ₦25 per kilogram, representing an increase of about 257 per cent. The new rate is scheduled to take effect from Monday, February 3, 2026, and has already triggered concern among freight forwarders, exporters, and other stakeholders across the aviation value chain.
The development was confirmed by the President of the Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON), Otunba Frank Ogunnojemite, who described the decision as troubling and potentially harmful to the already fragile air cargo ecosystem.
According to Ogunnojemite, the tariff hike runs contrary to the advice and objections raised by key industry stakeholders during engagements with FAAN’s management. He warned that the new charges would significantly raise the cost of air cargo operations, discourage exports, inflate import costs, and ultimately place additional financial pressure on Nigerian businesses and consumers.
APFFLON, he said, is particularly concerned that the sharp increment is coming at a time when government policy is focused on reducing the cost of doing business and improving Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and global trade.
The association also questioned the justification for such a steep increase, especially given FAAN’s access to government subventions and multiple revenue streams. Ogunnojemite noted that stakeholders have yet to see commensurate improvements in cargo infrastructure or service delivery that would warrant the new pricing regime.
He called on FAAN’s management to urgently review and suspend the implementation of the revised tariff in the interest of trade facilitation, economic stability, and national competitiveness.
FAAN, however, has defended the planned adjustment, stating that it follows the stabilisation of its operational processes and the closure of major revenue leakages within its cargo operations. In a statement issued on Thursday, the authority explained that the tariff increase had initially been scheduled for 2025 but was deferred to allow time for internal reforms and efficiency improvements.
According to FAAN, strategic changes implemented by its Cargo Development and Services Directorate have led to measurable gains in operational efficiency and revenue performance. The authority said recent adjustments to legacy processes have improved revenue assurance across major cargo terminals.
One of the key reforms highlighted includes the relocation of FAAN operational staff and revenue collection points back into cargo warehouses, a move the authority said has helped block significant revenue leakages. Enhanced monitoring of unaccompanied luggage has also been introduced to tighten controls.
FAAN further disclosed that despite a decline in cargo throughput in 2025 compared to 2024, it recorded higher revenue generation and markedly improved collection efficiency over the same period, strengthening its case for implementing the approved tariff adjustment.
As the effective date draws closer, industry stakeholders remain apprehensive, warning that the proposed increase could undermine export growth and weaken confidence in Nigeria’s air cargo sector if not reviewed.