The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has suspended the implementation of its controversial airport access levy following widespread criticism from airport operators, service providers and stakeholders.
The authority announced the suspension on Friday, just days after introducing a revised tariff regime for commercial vehicles operating within airport premises.
In a statement, FAAN said the decision followed engagements with stakeholders and was aimed at allowing further consultations before the policy is implemented.
According to the authority, the suspension takes immediate effect while discussions continue with airport users and other industry players.
FAAN explained that the revised tariff was designed to regulate commercial activities within airport environments, improve operational efficiency and generate revenue to support airport infrastructure and services.
It maintained that the charges were targeted at commercial operators conducting business within airport premises and were not intended to affect private individuals dropping off or picking up passengers.
The authority also clarified that airports are not public roads and that access to designated commercial areas within airport premises is subject to regulatory oversight.
However, the proposed levy had attracted strong opposition from aviation stakeholders, transport operators and service providers, who argued that the new charges would increase operating costs and place additional financial burdens on businesses and airport users.
Responding to the concerns, FAAN said it remains committed to constructive engagement and would continue consultations to ensure any eventual implementation reflects the interests of stakeholders while supporting safe and efficient airport operations.
The authority urged stakeholders to remain calm, assuring them that further decisions on the policy would be communicated after the ongoing consultations.
