Nigerian strike disrupts cargo
09 / 01 / 2012
A PROTEST against the removal of a fuel subsidy by Nigeria’s federal government has led to a nationwide labour strike, which has affected cargo flow at the country’s airports.
Airlines are counting their losses following the sit-at-home order given by the Nigeria Labour Congress and civil society groups.
Aero Airlines, Air Nigeria, Associated Aviation, Chanchangi Airlines, Dana Air, IRS Airlines, Overland Airways and others operate an average of 200 flights daily, amounting to hundreds of millions of naira (162NGN = US$1) for scheduled passenger and cargo operations.
Arik Air alone lost over hundreds of millions of naira, as it operates upwards of 150 flights within Nigeria and the West African coast.
Many cargo-handling companies are losing revenue from the grounded flights.
The strike has meant the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has been unable to collect hundreds of millions from airlines in 22 airports across the country, as well as other operations from concessions in cargo and other activities.
Latest reports suggest business activities at the international wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos remain limited, as few international airlines are running flights. Some inbound international flights including Air France, British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa and South African Airways are expected to arrive later today.
