Customs officers at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) have described how their protest against the rise in ground handling fees cost them almost N2 billion. According to the vice chairman of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Custom Agents, MMIA chapter, the organization withdrew its services after Skyway Aviation Handling Company (Sahco) and Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (Nacho) increased ground handling fees by 100 percent after a similar increase three years prior.
“We have had trouble operating because the two ground handlers have already begun the installation of the increase. Due to rain soaking our cargo, we have been losing money, and because our clients are paying for the damaged items, we are also responsible for paying for them”.
But in a joint letter signed by Boma Ukwunna and Saheed Lasisi of Sacho and Nacho respectively, which was addressed to the chairman of ANLCA, the handlers said the final rates adjustment was effectuated in line with aviation standard as all relevant stakeholders recognized by law including government agencies and the regulator were duly consulted.
