FAAN Begins Enforcement Of Port Charge At MMIA Cargo Terminal

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has secured critical stakeholder alignment to enforce compliance with the payment of FAAN’s statutory port charges at the Pilgrims & Cargo Terminal (PCT) of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.

FAAN said the port charge is not new. However, the authority has faced challenges in the last 18 years to ensure that the mandatory fee is paid before cargo leaves the warehouses, which has resulted in significant revenue losses over the years.

However, speaking at a stakeholder meeting convened by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), with key representatives from FAAN, SAHCO (Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc), and NAHCO (Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc), Lekan Thomas, Director of Cargo Development & Services, FAAN, reiterated the Authority’s readiness to deploy robust access control systems and electronic platforms to ensure compliance without impeding cargo flow.

He emphasised that the initiative enhances accountability while maintaining operational fluidity.

In support of the initiative, MMIA Customs Area Comptroller Awe pledged the full cooperation of the Nigeria Customs Service to achieve its objectives.

He committed to convening stakeholder heads for a formal briefing and facilitating collaboration through an interactive stakeholder forum to ensure smooth implementation.

The move also reflects the visionary leadership of FAAN’s managing director/chief executive, Olubunmi Kuku, whose commitment to innovation, operational reforms, and revenue optimisation continues to position FAAN as a model of efficiency in Africa’s aviation sector.

Under her leadership, FAAN is not only implementing cutting-edge solutions for revenue assurance but also driving strategic partnerships that strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global air cargo market.

As part of the agreements reached, FAAN will formalise the new enforcement framework by signing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with key stakeholders.

In addition, the DCDS will establish a Cargo Community Forum—a multi-level engagement platform bringing together all players in FAAN’s cargo value chain, from regulators and operators to freight forwarders and exporters.