Barely 96 hours after the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) announced that it would increase fees and charges by 800 per cent by September 1,2024, for survivability and safety, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo has ordered the agency to suspend the planned hike
The suspension of the increase in navigational charges, followed the Minister’s recognition of the current economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
A statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Abdullahi Musa said that the Minister emphasised the need for further consultation before implementing any changes, highlighting the importance of being sensitive to the plight of Nigerians amidst these economic challenges.
Recall that the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Farouk Umar in his keynote address at the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents(LAAC) Annual Conference with the theme, “Aviation Survivability amidst a Challenging Macro-Economic Environment’ held in Lagos on Friday, July 26, 2024, highlighted the significant economic pressures faced by the aviation industry, exacerbated by global economic volatility, fuel price hikes, and currency instability.
He outlined strategies for survival and growth, including operational efficiency, embracing innovation and technology, strengthening infrastructure, and fostering collaboration and partnerships.
Farouk also discussed the financial challenges NAMA faces, noting that the agency relies on statutory fees and charges for managing the airspace.
The Nigerian airspace management agency had proposed an increase in its fees and charges to sustain its operations and ensure the safety and efficiency of Nigeria’s airspace.
The new unit rate/minimum charge for en-route, the NAMA boss had set to increase to 18,000 Naira from 2,000 Naira per flight while the unit rate/minimum charge for terminal navigation charge(TCN domestic) were to rise to 54,000 Naira from 6,000 Naira per flight with effect from September 1,2024.
NAMA said that it would continue to engage the airlines, who have been responding to the prevailing economic situation since 2008 without taking NAMA into consideration, which is supposed to be a cost recovery agency in line with global practices.
The agency stated that the suspension of the fee increase is a testament to the government’s responsiveness to public concerns and its commitment to balancing economic sustainability with the needs of its citizens.
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