The Nigerian government is implementing initiatives to position the country as a significant player in the global air cargo market, projected to reach $310 billion in the coming years.
Key measures include urging state governments to invest more in air transport infrastructure, particularly in the establishment of air cargo terminals intended as national hubs.
Discussions and partnerships are underway between the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and international entities with expertise in expanding agricultural exports and other goods for foreign exchange earnings.
After rebounding from over $197 billion previously, the air cargo sector is now aiming for further growth.
States such as Plateau, Ogun, Nassarawa, Anambra, Ebonyi, Kano, and Lagos are being considered for designation as air cargo hubs.
To support this initiative, international financial institutions, including the African Development Bank (AfDB), have invested in a quality assurance and testing facility in Sagamu, Ogun State, for the Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport in Ilisan Remo.
Regulatory approval is pending for the hybrid air transport facility to begin commercial passenger and cargo operations.
Construction of an air cargo village near Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos is already underway.
Plans also include establishing cargo processing centers at designated facilities to ensure compliance with international standards for processing, packaging, labeling, and storage of air freight.
FAAN recently engaged with the Plateau State Government to discuss upgrading Jos Airport into a cargo hub.
In an interview, FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, emphasized FAAN’s commitment to collaborate with the state government in establishing a planned cargo terminal in Plateau State.
She highlighted the potential of leveraging the state’s agricultural resources and proposed modular approaches to infrastructure development, advocating for immediate action within local environments.
Mrs. Kuku suggested marketing Plateau’s perishable goods and organizing market events to attract buyers nationwide, fostering investment in testing, packaging, storage, and transportation of agricultural produce.
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, expressed appreciation for FAAN’s support and pledged ongoing efforts to achieve the state’s cargo business ambitions, underscoring FAAN’s commitment to enhancing Plateau State’s economic growth through agricultural development.
Governor Mutfwang described FAAN’s tour of Jos Airport facilities as a significant step toward positioning Plateau State as a major player in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, offering substantial benefits to local farmers and the broader economy.
