The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has partnered with key stakeholders to streamline port charges at the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

Lekan Thomas, FAAN’s director of cargo development and services, said the move aims to boost the Authority’s internally generated revenue.

He spoke after a high-level stakeholder meeting held on Thursday in Lagos, convened by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

The meeting included representatives from Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc and Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc.

Mr Thomas said the stakeholders agreed FAAN should collect port charges before cargo is moved out of terminal warehouses.

This reform addresses longstanding challenges in cargo handling and revenue collection, enhancing operational efficiency.

He reiterated FAAN’s readiness to implement electronic platforms and robust access control systems to enforce compliance without delaying cargo flow.

Mr Thomas added that the initiative promotes greater accountability while preserving smooth cargo operations.

He described the development as a new era of cooperation between government agencies and ground handlers. 

This synergy is expected to improve cargo regulation, increase revenue assurance, and restore confidence in Nigeria’s air cargo sector.

He noted that enhanced revenue mechanisms, improved collaboration, and transparent operations would be key outcomes of the initiative.

Mr Thomas also said FAAN would soon begin access control measures, with an electronic stakeholder platform being finalised.

In support, MMIA Customs Area Comptroller, M.T. Awe, assured full cooperation from the Nigeria Customs Service.

Mr Awe said shed heads would be briefed, and an interactive forum created to support seamless implementation.

 (NAN)