The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has suspended its planned increase in navigational charges, following a directive from the Honorable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
This decision comes in response to the current economic challenges faced by Nigerians, and the need for further consultation before implementing any changes.
The suspension of the fee increase was announced after Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, Managing Director/CE of NAMA, delivered a keynote address at the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents Annual Conference in Lagos. In his address, Engr. Farouk highlighted the significant economic pressures faced by the aviation industry, including global economic volatility, fuel price hikes, and currency instability.
NAMA had proposed an increase in its fees and charges to sustain its operations and ensure the safety and efficiency of Nigeria’s airspace.
However, the planned increase was met with concerns from stakeholders in the aviation sector, who have been responding to the prevailing economic situation since 2008.
The directive from the Honorable Minister and the subsequent suspension of the planned increase demonstrate 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.
The Nigerian airspace management agency will continue to engage with airlines and other stakeholders to find a solution that takes into account the economic challenges faced by the industry.
NAMA relies on statutory fees and charges for managing the airspace, and the agency is committed to finding a way to sustain its operations while minimizing the impact on stakeholders.
The suspension of the planned increase in navigational charges is a positive development for the aviation industry, and demonstrates the government’s willingness to listen to the concerns of stakeholders.
It is hoped that a solution can be found that balances the needs of NAMA with the economic realities faced by the industry.
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