Reps Direct FAAN to Recover N18.9bn from Airlines

The Nigerian House of Representatives, led by Hon. Jame Abiodun Falek, has ordered the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to recover a total of N18.9 billion owed by various foreign airlines.

During a session focused on revenue monitoring, concerns were raised regarding the unacceptable debt profile of several international airlines operating in Nigeria. FAAN's Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, presented a breakdown of the debts, highlighting that airlines such as Qatar Airways and Lufthansa owe approximately N1.5 billion each, while others like Virgin Atlantic and KLM owe N1.35 billion and N1 billion, respectively.

Despite a two-week payment window, many airlines have failed to settle their charges, leading lawmakers to question why these airlines are allowed to operate while carrying significant debts. FAAN explained that the international payment process is managed through the IATA settlement platform, but lawmakers insisted on stronger enforcement mechanisms to prevent further accumulation of debt.

The committee emphasized the importance of recovering all owed revenue to support Nigeria's economic growth.