Nigeria’s Airport, Association of Nigerian Licensed Custom Agents (ANCLA) Vice President Davies Chukwuneye, announced at a press conference that the association has ceased operations due to Nacho and Sahco’s 100% increase in ground handling fees, which they had previously done three years ago. Chukwuneye criticized the move as impolite and inconsiderate. He stated that the group attempted to negotiate discounted prices with both ground handling companies but was unsuccessful.
In February, the ground handling companies informed the Association of Nigerian Licensed Custom Agents (ANCLA) board that their handling and other fees would increase by 300%. The union found it impolite and inconsiderate due to the poor state of the economy. Union executives attempted to convince ground handlers that a recent pay increase would have negative consequences.
ANCLA Vice President Chukwuneye stated that Nigerians are struggling to survive, and the continuous rise in prices without improved services is concerning. Another increase may occur by year’s end if no action is taken. “We urge the central government to direct ground workers. Our services to stores have ceased for four days.” There has been no contact from them yet, indicating a lack of concern. We warned them that the increase wouldn’t benefit anyone.
He claimed the rise could bankrupt customs agents, urging authorities to intervene promptly to prevent further complications. We lost 2 billion naira quickly. Raises should be fair for job retention. “We contacted the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority regarding the issue but haven’t received a response. The ground handlers have implemented the increase, causing difficulties for our business.” He criticized the ground managers’ services and revealed that members have to purchase hand trucks despite already paying handling fees. They lent us machines to inspect, but they took them back to the rental place after we agreed to the price hike.
“Rain is damaging our cargo and causing us financial loss as customers don’t pay for water-soaked goods.” In a letter to ANLCA, ground handlers Sacho and Nacho stated that the final rate adjustment met aviation standards and involved consultation with stakeholders, including government agencies and the regulator. They also noted their adherence to ICAO’s four principles for charge increases. Four principles were discussed: cost recovery, transparency, user consultation, and non-discrimination.
On April 17, 2023, a meeting was held with key stakeholders. On April 19, 2023, we agreed to a 100% increase that would start on April 24. The ground handlers were surprised by the protest since the issue had been resolved after justifying the current economic situation.
