Lagos: The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Friday inaugurated its Domestic Cargo Terminal at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, emphasized the role of cargo as a trade enabler that supports both domestic and international commerce during her opening remarks.
Kuku, represented by the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Mrs. Adebola Agunbiade, highlighted that cargo movement is essential for commerce, supporting industries, powering businesses, and creating economic opportunities nationwide. She pointed out the increasing importance of reliable and secure logistics as e-commerce and agricultural exports expand.
The new facility is designed to expedite trade, enhance efficiency, and prepare Nigeria for future growth. Kuku noted that the domestic cargo terminal symbolizes speed, efficiency, scalability, and improved logistics within the country. The terminal is expected to boost aviation revenue and strengthen business supply chains across Nigeria.
Kuku also mentioned that the terminal would help increase Nigeria's international cargo volumes over time. She explained the necessity for Lagos, as Nigeria's economic hub, to have a reliable cargo center to attract more national freight operators. FAAN plans to replicate similar terminals in other cities such as Abuja, Kano, Jos, and Niger, where space constraints are less of an issue.
FAAN is exploring partnerships with states and private stakeholders to expand cargo logistics across Nigeria. Kuku praised the vision of Aviation Minister Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, for establishing the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services, which completed and equipped the domestic cargo facility.
FAAN's Director of Cargo Development and Services, Mr. Lekan Thomas, mentioned that the directorate supports President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. The commissioning of the terminal reflects real progress and new economic prospects for Nigeria. In 2023, Nigeria handled approximately 174,000 metric tonnes of air freight, ranking it among Africa's top cargo markets.
Thomas noted that 65 percent of the volume consisted of imports, such as pharmaceuticals, machinery, and perishables. He highlighted the growth in Nigeria's exports, driven by demand for produce, minerals, and textiles. IATA projects Nigeria's air cargo market to grow by 5 percent annually over the next five years. Thomas emphasized the importance of Lagos, as the commercial heart of Nigeria, in national logistics development and praised the aviation minister and FAAN leadership for their dedication and vision in realizing the terminal.