Nigerian travellers to pay new $11.5 security levy from Dec 1
From December 1, 2025, Nigerians flying in and out of the country will pay an additional $11.50 security levy per ticket, following the introduction of the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
The new charge increases Nigeria’s total security levy to $31.50 per ticket and is projected to generate $46 million annually for the NCAA. According to the agency, the levy aims to establish a “single-window” data system to track passenger movement, enhance border control, and streamline airport clearance processes.
In a notice to airlines, the NCAA directed that the APIS charge be added to all tickets issued from December 1, 2025, for both inbound and outbound passengers. Airlines are responsible for collecting and remitting the fee to the NCAA.
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The agency explained that the APIS initiative, implemented in partnership with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), aligns with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards and global best practices. However, the levy excludes infants, diplomats, airline crew on duty, transit passengers within 24 hours, and travellers rerouted due to technical or weather-related issues.
The new charge is separate from the $20 security levy introduced in 2010 after the Umar Abdulmutallab attempted bombing incident. That levy, meant to fund airport security upgrades and advanced passenger information systems, is still in effect.
The latest increase has sparked debate among industry stakeholders, who question the overlapping taxes and the lack of visible improvement in infrastructure despite years of collections.
Currently, a Nigerian international traveller pays about $150 in combined taxes and levies per ticket — including $20 for security, 5% Ticket Sales Charge, and up to $100 Passenger Service Charge (PSC) collected by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
READ ALSO: FAAN to increase tariff, ban cash payment nationwide
A report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows that Nigerian passengers now pay 264% more in taxes than their counterparts in other African countries, a trend analysts warn could push more travellers to avoid Nigerian airports in favour of neighbouring hubs
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