The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have rejected the new $11.50 charge set to start on December 1. They say the fee was introduced by the Nigeria Immigration Service but announced by the aviation authority, creating more confusion and burden for airlines.

AON spokesperson, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, said airlines are already weighed down by multiple taxes and fees. He argued that the new charge is unnecessary and will further hurt the aviation sector.

He noted that airlines already pay a $20 security fee and questioned what value passengers get from these charges. According to him, the constant levies will lead to higher ticket prices and make Nigeria less attractive for international travel.

Okonkwo urged the government to support local airlines with single-digit loans, saying a strong aviation industry is vital to Nigeria’s economic goals.

Efforts to get a response from the Immigration Service spokesperson, Akinsola Akinlabi, were unsuccessful.