Lawmakers demand action on N18.98bn debt owed by foreign airlines
The House of Representatives Committee on Finance has directed the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to recover N18.98bn owed by foreign airlines. The committee, led by James Faleke, expressed concern over the rising debts and questioned why airlines were allowed to exceed payment deadlines. Olubunmi Kuku, FAAN’s Managing Director, explained that some debts have been outstanding for over a year. Lawmakers insisted on stricter enforcement and warned that airlines failing to pay may face sanctions.
What we know
- The House Committee on Finance instructed FAAN to recover N18.98bn owed by foreign airlines operating in Nigeria.
- James Faleke led the directive, questioning FAAN on why debts were allowed to accumulate despite a two-week payment window.
- Olubunmi Kuku revealed that airlines like Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, KLM, EgyptAir, and others owe significant amounts, with some liabilities exceeding one year.
- Lawmakers demanded that FAAN provide detailed documentation for all debtor airlines and warned that non-compliant operators would be summoned.
- The committee emphasized the need for stricter enforcement and accountability to prevent further revenue losses.
