Airport Taxi Operators operating at Nigerian airports have pleaded with the management of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for extension of time on the compliance to the use of 2012 car models for their operations within the airports.
The operators who have their parks at all airport terminals across the nation pleaded for the extension of the time because of the present situation of the nation’s economy which puts a high number of Nigerians under financial constraints, making sustainable living an herculean task.
Speaking on behalf of other airport cab operators, the Chairman of International Terminal Zone (ITZ), Mr. Charles Odofin gave the appeal over the weekend while speaking with journalists on the challenges of their operations within the airport.
He said they have sent a letter to the Managing Director of FAAN asking for her Gracious Approval of their requests.
The Airport Cab Operators said they are delighted and in support with the introduction of an e-booking app by the Management of FAAN, noting that since this is what is obtained in most modern gateway Airports around the world, Nigeria should not be an exception.
“We support FAAN on the introduction of the e-booking app. It will be beneficial all. Since this is what is in place in other parts of the world, ours cannot be an exception. We are ready to key into it,” Odofin affirmed.
They, however, pleaded that all their vehicles were cleared to operate till December 2026 after FAAN inspections that was done in May 2026, be given twelve calendar months of grace to operate until the end of June 2027 before enforcement for 2012 models.
The operators claimed that though few of their members, less than 5 per cent of total operators nationwide, have acquired the 2012 models but majority is yet to do so because, the high cost of acquiring the new model because of the huge cost on them.
They also said that they have approached some banks for auto loans.
Recalling similar experience in 2007, when FAAN demanded the change from the use of Mercedes – Benz V-boot to Camry 2004 models, they claimed that the then management of FAAN gave them 24 months for implementation of the Camry cars leading to the coming of First Bank of Nigeria (FBN) to partner with them on equity funding for the Camry cars in 2007, which they paid back between 24 and 36 months.
“This is not the first time FAAN is coming with this type of directive, which we complied with. The only issue now is that they want it done immediately.
When we had similar experience in 2007 we asked for time and they gave us. We went to look for a bank, First Bank of Nigeria, and we went into partnership. The bank finances the purchase of the cars and gave us between 24 and 36 months for repayment, which we did without anyone of us defaulting.
But when you look at the interest rate today, it is very high. We are negotiating with some financiers who are willing to work with us. This is why we are asking for a grace of the 12 month period before the total implementation,” Odofin explained.
He therefore called on the
Managing Director to heed their pleaa with compassion.
“Now, we shall be very grateful for your listening ears to our pleas and support with co-operation and consideration for seamless implementation that will be mutually beneficial to all the parties,” he pleaded.
On the use of electric cars, the operators said they have consulted with at least two companies who are ready to partner with them. But the companies have requested more time to be able to meet the demand.
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