In a recent development, the Domestic Airports Cargo Agents Association (DACAA) has estimated that Nigeria incurred a staggering loss of approximately N7 billion in cargo transport during the two-day nationwide strike organized by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NUC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
Mr. Ikpe Nkanang, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of DACAA, revealed this significant loss in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Friday.
According to Nkanang, on a daily basis, about 30 tonnes of cargo are typically transported across the country’s domestic airports. The sheer volume of cargo that remained undelivered during the strike is unimaginable.
Nkanang informed NAN that a substantial amount of cargo had been prepared for shipment on Monday morning before the strike commenced.
However, with the airlines not operating during the strike, the movement of cargo came to a halt, resulting in significant financial implications for all stakeholders involved.
The Chairman expressed his concern over the substantial loss suffered by the cargo industry, emphasizing its impact on both their revenue and the overall economy of the country.
He further highlighted that during the two-day strike, the nation experienced a colossal loss of approximately N7 billion across all local airports. Each kilogram of cargo transportation costs an estimated N300, further illustrating the magnitude of the financial setback.
Nkanang urged the Federal Government to swiftly negotiate an agreement with the organized labour to avoid a resumption of the strike.
Timely resolution of the ongoing negotiations is crucial to prevent further disruptions to cargo transportation and mitigate the negative consequences on the industry and the nation’s economy.
It is worth noting that airport operations came to a standstill during the strike, as aviation unions effectively blocked all access points to domestic terminals.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the strike, stakeholders within the cargo transport industry anxiously await a resolution that will ensure the seamless movement of goods and contribute to the economic growth and stability of Nigeria.
