The international air travelers flying into or out of Nigeria will face an additional $11.5 security charge on each ticket. This was imposed by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and it will start on December 1st, 2025. This levy, known as the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) charge, is aimed at enhancing national security by enabling real-time passenger data sharing among Nigerian airport agencies. The APIS system will facilitate pre-screening of passengers before arrival, improving border control and streamlining passenger clearance.

The NCAA expects this new fee to generate approximately $46 million annually and mandates that both local and foreign airlines adjust ticketing systems to include the charge. The charge will be collected at the point of sale and is to be remitted to the NCAA by the airlines.

The introduction of this levy is drawing criticism from stakeholders who argue it will add to the already high cost of flying for Nigerian travelers. Currently, Nigerian passengers pay some of the highest aviation taxes in Africa, with average charges around $180 per foreign departure and arrival, significantly higher than many other countries on the continent. Airlines and travel experts warn that the additional fee could push more passengers towards alternative travel means such as road transport to neighboring countries, due to rising flight costs under the strain of Nigeria’s economic realities.

Apart from the APIS charge, international travelers also pay other fees such as Passenger Service Charges (PSC) for airport maintenance and services. The NCAA notes that the APIS charge is part of a 20-year plan to advance aviation security and data management in collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service.The aviation sector’s stakeholders are calling for balanced government policy that considers the economic challenges faced by travelers while ensuring security and operational efficiency at Nigerian airports.