April 17, 2026 | Lagos, Nigeria
There is growing public anger after reports emerged that the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos has introduced new parking charges, including a ₦50,000 overnight parking fee, sparking fresh debate over the rising cost of living in Nigeria.
A video circulating online shows frustrated motorists reacting to the updated tariff system, which many described as excessive and disconnected from the economic reality faced by ordinary Nigerians, especially in light of the recently approved ₦70,000 national minimum wage.
In the footage, one visibly upset driver criticised the cost of short-term parking, saying even a one-hour stay now attracts a heavy charge.
“Just one hour is about ₦3,500. That is too much,” the motorist lamented in the viral video.
According to posted tariff details at the airport, overnight parking for private vehicles is now pegged at ₦50,000, while SUVs and buses are charged about ₦4,000 per hour. Larger commercial buses reportedly face even higher rates, with charges reaching up to ₦20,000 per hour in some categories.
The policy also includes a ₦25,000 penalty for lost or damaged parking tickets, further increasing costs for users.
The development has triggered widespread criticism on social media, with many Nigerians questioning how citizens earning the new minimum wage are expected to afford such fees without financial strain.
Critics argue that the new pricing reflects a widening gap between government policies and everyday economic realities, especially as transportation and living costs continue to rise nationwide.
Labour groups have also previously raised concerns over workers’ welfare, wage arrears, and the impact of inflation, insisting that the ₦70,000 minimum wage has been significantly weakened by rising costs.
As reactions continue, aviation authorities are yet to issue an official response to the public outcry.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments on this story.
