Imagine you’re running a business that’s essential to keeping airplanes flying safely. That’s what ground handling companies in Nigeria do. They’re the unsung heroes who take care of everything on the ground – from loading luggage and cargo to guiding planes to their gates and ensuring passengers disembark safely.
These companies are facing tough times, and they’re asking the Nigerian government for help. They’re saying that without some assistance, it’s going to be increasingly difficult for them to stay afloat and provide the services that keep the aviation industry moving.
One of the biggest challenges they face is the high cost of importing the equipment they need. Things like specialized vehicles for loading luggage, machinery for pushing planes back from the gate, and other vital tools are expensive, and the import duties (taxes) they have to pay make them even more so.
The ground handling companies are asking the government for “duty waivers,” which would essentially mean they don’t have to pay these import taxes. They argue that the government has given similar waivers to airlines, and it’s only fair that ground handlers receive the same treatment. Reducing these costs would allow the handling companies to invest in better equipment and provide even safer and more efficient services.
They’re also requesting “concessionary loans” from the Central Bank of Nigeria. These are loans with lower interest rates, which would make it easier for the companies to borrow money and invest in their businesses.
The companies argue that aviation is a vital part of Nigeria’s economy. If the government wants the economy to grow, they need to support all sectors that contribute, including ground handling. By providing duty waivers and concessionary loans, the government can create a more favorable environment for these businesses to thrive.
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Another issue is the prices they charge airlines for their services. For a long time, ground handling companies have felt they weren’t being paid enough, especially by domestic airlines. The companies recently raised their rates, but after some negotiation with the government, they agreed to a slight reduction.
However, the ground handlers emphasize that it’s important for airlines to pay fairly for the services they receive. They point out that international airlines pay much more for ground handling services in other countries. The ground handlers have also been directed by the government to improve the welfare and salaries of their staff, a directive they have complied with, while the cost of business keeps increasing.
In the end, what the ground handling companies want is a level playing field and the support they need to continue providing essential services to the aviation industry. They believe that by working together with the government and the airlines, they can ensure a safe, efficient, and thriving aviation sector in Nigeria.
