The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has directed cargo agents, air travellers and all people dealing in cargo to restrict their operations to designated areas around the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
Specifically, FAAN directed cargo operators to utilize the approved vehicles and personnel as well as pay the necessary levies to avoid any infractions at the airport.
FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah disclosed this yesterday in statement saying the airport authority will not back down in its cargo policies designed to adhere to international best practices.
Part of the policies she said include practices by operators that will prevent damage to airport facilities especially conveyor belts as it moves to prioritise customer service and safety.
She said FAAN has imposed a fine of N5,000 on non-compliant cargo for the reasons of failure to utilize designated cargo terminals, and damage to carousels resulting from improper cargo handling.
FAAN also reacted to a video circulating in done platforms depicting a disagreement between its staff and an individual over cargo charges at the airport terminal.
Orah stated that contrary to initial reports, the individual involved was not a passenger but a cargo agent conducting, ‘Illegal operations at the airport.
Orah said: “She refused to pay the stipulated charges for the cargo and behaved in an unacceptable manner, damaging equipment and straining our resources.”
She further clarified that there was no form of molestation by FAAN staff, neither was there any request for a bribe from staff during the incident, adding, “This was simply an act of blackmail. Our staff was simply ensuring that the correct levy was paid.
“We urge all cargo agents and members of the public to note that cargo operations should be restricted to designated cargo areas, utilizing proper vehicles and personnel and pay the levies. Our cargo policies are designed to ensure adherence to international best practices, prevent damage to airport facilities and prioritise customer service and safety.”
