FAAN Takes Bold Step to Boost Revenue, Transparency in Cargo Handling
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has secured a landmark agreement with key stakeholders to directly collect port charges before cargo is released from terminal warehouses at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos.
This strategic move aims to strengthen transparency and boost internally generated revenue(IGR).
The consensus was reached at a high-level stakeholder meeting convened by the Nigeria Customs Service, attended by representatives from FAAN, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), SAHCO, and NAHCO. According to the Director of Cargo Development & Services at FAAN, Lekan Thomas, the authority is ready to deploy robust access control systems and electronic platforms to ensure compliance without disrupting cargo flow.
This initiative marks a significant shift in addressing long-standing gaps in cargo handling and revenue collection, enhancing operational efficiency, and promoting accountability while maintaining operational fluidity.
In view of this, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has pledged full cooperation, with MMIA Customs Area Controller, Compt. Awe committing to briefing shed heads and facilitating collaboration through an interactive stakeholder forum.
This development signals a new era of synergy between government agencies and ground handling operators, expected to improve cargo flow regulation, enhance revenue assurance, and restore confidence in Nigeria’s air cargo ecosystem. FAAN said it is set to commence access control measures shortly, with a dedicated electronic stakeholder engagement platform in the works.
By taking ownership of port charge collection, FAAN is strengthening its revenue streams, vital for airport maintenance and development.
This collaborative effort promises to drive value for the aviation sector, making cargo operations at MMIA more efficient, transparent, and profitable.
