Nigerian Airlines Challenge New $11.50 Immigration Fee, Cite Mounting Sector Pressures

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has strongly opposed a newly introduced $11.50 passenger charge scheduled for implementation on December 1, 2025, describing the levy as another unsustainable burden on the country’s struggling aviation industry. The fee, initiated by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) but to be enforced by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has drawn sharp criticism from airline executives who warn it will further escalate operational costs and ultimately increase fares for passengers.

Professor Obiora Okonkwo, AON spokesperson and Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, voiced the industry’s concerns during a media briefing on Wednesday, highlighting the proliferation of charges threatening airline viability. He characterized the aviation sector as “an elephant where lots of people are feeding on, and the operators are the ones doing the job,” emphasizing that carriers already contend with multiple levies from various government agencies.

The new fee comes against the backdrop of an existing $20 security charge on international flights, which Okonkwo noted has faced similar controversy regarding its utilization. “If you collect what is supposed to be for security and put [it toward] corporate service or renovation or staff welfare, that is clearly collecting money under pretense,” he stated, questioning the transparency and application of such dedicated charges.

Okonkwo specifically challenged the justification for the immigration fee, asking, “How does immigration play a security role?” and casting doubt on whether the amount reflects actual service costs compared to international standards. He warned that these cumulative charges would not only drive up ticket prices but potentially diminish Nigeria’s competitiveness as an international travel destination.

The airline representative appealed for government intervention, noting that operational ease for carriers would ultimately benefit the national economy. He reinforced this position by linking aviation sector health to President Bola Tinubu’s economic vision, stating that the ambition of achieving a $1 trillion economy would be “unattainable without a thriving aviation sector.” The AON has repeatedly advocated for single-digit interest loans and more supportive policies to strengthen domestic airline operations.