Lagos, Nigeria — Air travellers and motorists are raising alarm over a sharp increase in parking fees at Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2), with reports of charges surging by as much as 150 percent.
Under the revised tariff, sedan owners now pay ₦3,500 for the first hour—up from ₦2,500—while SUVs are charged ₦4,000. Additional hours attract ₦2,500, and overnight parking has climbed to a steep ₦50,000. Lost tickets now cost ₦25,000.
The spike has triggered widespread backlash, with passengers describing the fees as “exploitative” and “unreasonable,” particularly against the backdrop of Nigeria’s rising cost of living.
Viral Backlash and Celebrity Reaction
Public outrage intensified after reality TV star Whitemoney revealed he was billed ₦206,000 for parking his car at the airport for four days.
In a video posted online, Whitemoney, whose real name is Hazel Oyeze Onou, said he was stunned to learn that overnight parking now costs ₦50,000.
“This is very outrageous,” he said, questioning whether the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, and relevant authorities are aware of the new pricing structure.
Passengers Hit With Steep Bills
Beyond celebrity complaints, everyday commuters say the impact has been immediate and severe. One traveller reported being charged ₦11,500 for just two hours of parking, fuelling accusations of arbitrary pricing.
The operator is said to have justified the increase as a measure to discourage long-term parking, arguing that the facility is designed primarily for short stays.
However, critics argue that the sharp hike effectively penalizes travellers who have limited transport alternatives, especially those catching early flights or arriving late at night.
Growing Calls for Intervention
The controversy has prompted calls for regulatory scrutiny, with some commuters urging government agencies to investigate the pricing model and ensure fair consumer practices.
Many travellers say the rising cost of parking is compounding an already expensive travel experience, as airfares and other logistics continue to climb.
As frustration grows, some passengers are abandoning airport parking altogether—opting instead for ride-hailing services or drop-offs to avoid the escalating fees.
For now, the MMA2 fee hike has become a flashpoint in a broader conversation about affordability, regulation, and the cost of mobility in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
