Less than 48 hours after the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) announced an increase in navigational charges by 800 per cent, the minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has suspended the increment.
In a statement by the director, public affairs and consumer protection, NAMA, Abdullahi Musa, the suspension by the minister was in recognition of the current economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
According to NAMA, the minister emphasised the need for further consultation before implementing any change, highlighting the importance of being sensitive to the plight of Nigerians amidst current economic challenges.
“In response to the directive from the minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, NAMA has suspended its earlier announced increase in navigational charges. This decision follows the Minister’s recognition of the current economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
“The Minister emphasized the need for further consultation before implementing any changes, highlighting the importance of being sensitive to the plight of Nigerians amidst these economic challenges.”
However, the statement stated that the agency would continue to engage the airlines, who have been responding to the prevailing economic situation since 2008.
The statement further chided the airlines for not taking NAMA into consideration, saying the agency was supposed to be a cost recovery agency in line with global practices.
“The directive from the Minister and the subsequent suspension of the planned increase underscore the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of Nigerian citizens and stakeholders in the aviation sector.
“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,” it added.
LEADERSHIP reports that the managing director of NAMA, Engr. Farouk Umar, at the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents Annual Conference held in Lagos, tittled, ‘Aviation Survivability amidst a Challenging Macro-Economic Environment,’ had 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.
Engr. 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 was 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 the 1st of September.