Reps probe threats to $150bn air cargo freights

The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the delay frustrating air freighting of cargoes occasioned by extortions and multiple charges at the airports.

This is sequel to the unanimous adoption of a motion moved by the Deputy Minority Leader, Toby Okechukwu, and other lawmakers, which was titled ‘Need to investigate alleged extortions and sundry charges on air freighting and agro-export businesses in Nigeria.’

Following the adoption, the House mandated its committees on finance; aviation; Customs and Excise; and agricultural production and services to ‘investigate the issues adversely affecting air cargo freighting in Nigeria and report back within two weeks for further legislative action’.

Moving the motion, Okechukwu noted the Federal Government’s interest in economic diversification and promotion of non-oil exports, adding that Nigeria was a signatory to various regional, continental and global trade arrangements such as the African Continental Free Trade Area.

He said, “The House is cognisant of Nigeria’s huge agro-export potential, with 22 non-oil products worth over $150bn in export value yearly already pencilled in the new export promotion programme of the Federal Government.

Also on Wednesday, the House mandated the Committee on Aviation to investigate the claims and counterclaims regarding issues of debts in the aviation sector within six weeks and report back for further legislative action.

A member of the House, Adeyemi Alli, who moved a motion titled ‘Need to look into the debt crisis in the aviation industry’, noted that the aviation industry played a pivotal role in providing a rapid worldwide transportation network, which made it essential for global activities.

Alli also noted that the industry generated economic growth, created employment and facilitated international trade and tourism and other essential services like defence.