After the announcement by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) which was less than 48 hours of an increase in the navigational charges by 800 per cent, Mr Festus Kenyamo who is the minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has suspended the increment.
In a statement by the director, public affairs and consumer protection, NAMA, Abdullahi Musa, the suspension by the minister was in recognition of the current economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
He further noted that the minister emphasised the need for further consultation before implementing any changes, highlighting the importance of being sensitive to the plight of Nigerians amidst the economic challenges.
The statement reads in part, “The Nigerian Airspace Management agency would continue to engage the airlines, who have been responding to the prevailing economic situation since 2008 without taking NAMA into consideration, which is supposed to be a cost recovery agency in line with global practices.
“The directive from the minister and the subsequent suspension of the planned increase underscores 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.”
