NAMA suspends planned 800% levy hike
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has suspended its planned 800% increase in navigational charges.
According to the spokesman for the agency, Abdullahi Musa, the suspension follows a directive by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo over “current economic challenges faced by Nigerians”.
In order to maintain its operations and guarantee the security and effectiveness of Nigeria’s airspace, NAMA had suggested raising its costs. With effect from September 1, 2024, the minimum charge for terminal navigation was to increase to ₦54,000 from ₦6,000 every trip, while the new unit rate for en-route was to increase to ₦18,000 from ₦2,000 per flight.
But in a statement on Monday, the minister emphasized that more input is necessary before making any price adjustments. Umar Farouk, the head of NAMA, also emphasized the severe financial strains that the aviation sector is under, which are made worse by fluctuations in the world economy, increases in fuel prices, and unstable exchange rates.
