The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has suspended its previously announced 800% increase in navigational charges.
This decision comes in direct response to a directive from Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
The suspension was disclosed in a statement signed by Abdullahi Musa, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NAMA.
The Minister emphasized the necessity for further consultation before implementing any changes, underscoring the importance of being considerate of Nigerians’ economic struggles.
“The Minister recognized the economic difficulties currently faced by Nigerians and highlighted the need for more discussions before any fee adjustments,” Musa stated.
This decision aligns with the keynote address by Farouk Ahmed Umar, Managing Director/CEO of NAMA, delivered at the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents Annual Conference held in Lagos on July 26, 2024.
The conference, themed “Aviation Survivability amidst a Challenging Macro-Economic Environment,” focused on the severe economic pressures on the aviation industry, including global economic volatility, fuel price hikes, and currency instability.
In his address, Farouk outlined strategies for the sector’s survival and growth, such as enhancing operational efficiency, embracing innovation and technology, strengthening infrastructure, and fostering collaboration and partnerships.
He also pointed out the financial challenges faced by NAMA, noting the agency’s reliance on statutory fees and charges to manage Nigeria’s airspace.
Originally, NAMA proposed to increase the unit rate/minimum charge for en-route navigation from 2,000 Naira to 18,000 Naira per flight, and the terminal navigation charge (TCN domestic) from 6,000 Naira to 54,000 Naira per flight, effective September 1.
These proposed increases were intended to sustain operations and ensure the safety and efficiency of the airspace, but they have now been put on hold.
NAMA has committed to continued engagement with airlines to address the prevailing economic situation, recognizing the airlines’ financial struggles while also emphasizing NAMA’s role as 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,” Musa concluded.
