CHUKS OKOH,
The managing director of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, says the authority is ready to decentralise cargo processing and provide equitable access to modern logistics infrastructure across airports in the country.
This is aimed at not only supporting the economic goals of the nation but also signals our commitment to fostering innovation and efficiency within the aviation sector,
Speaking at the unveiling of the new domestic cargo processing facility at the General Aviation Terminal, Lagos Kuku said the bold move was to strengthen aviation logistics and bolster export capacity
Represented by the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Ms Joy Agunbiade, Kuku, stated that the initiative was a direct result of the renewed emphasis placed on cargo infrastructure under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo
She described it as a strategic game-changer, the facility is designed to enhance the efficiency, scalability, and connectivity of cargo operations at Lagos airport.
“With the continued growth in e-commerce and agricultural exports, the terminal offers businesses a more reliable, secure, and streamlined logistics platform.
It is expected to significantly reduce existing bottlenecks in cargo movement while positioning Lagos as a pivotal hub for both domestic and international freight operations”.
“The commissioning marks a critical step in the execution of FAAN’s strategic roadmap aimed at optimising Nigeria’s cargo movement and reinforcing the country’s position in the global logistics chain”
She noted that in 2023, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo in the bid to transform the Aviation Sector, created the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services with the main objective of promoting exportation. This initiative has led to the completion and equipping of this domestic cargo processing facility.
Kuku said it was more than just a facility as the warehouse represented a bold step toward efficiency, connectivity, and sustainable economic growth, as well as a significant mark in the ongoing efforts to build and modernize Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, enhance cargo operations, and boost economic growth.
“Cargo movement is the lifeblood of commerce, powering industries, supporting businesses, and creating opportunities. As e-commerce expands, and agricultural exports surge, the demand for reliable, rapid, and secure cargo logistics has never been greater”
The FAAN boss noted that the facility was designed precisely for the moment to accelerate trade, enhance operational efficiency, and position us for the future.
“This domestic cargo terminal is a gateway for efficiency, speed, scalability and better domestic logistic movement. The ripple effect will be felt not only in increased revenue for the aviation sector but also in strengthening supply chains for businesses nationwide”.
Kuku remarked that the terminal will serve as a catalyst for increasing international cargo volumes adding that as Lagos remained the economic heartbeat of Nigeria, an efficient cargo hub will attract more national freight operators.
The Director of Cargo Development Services, Mr Lekan Thomas, said the event was not just a ceremony; but a testament to progress, purpose and hard work from different stakeholders.
Thomas said Nigeria’s commercial hub, Lagos remained at the center of cargo activity, making the newly commissioned Domestic Cargo Shed a vital component of our national logistics framework.
“Under the dynamic leadership of FAAN’s Managing Director & Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, we have witnessed a steadfast commitment to positioning Nigeria’s aviation and cargo sectors for international competitiveness”
He added that her strategic approach has driven reforms, focused on operational excellence, infrastructural upgrades, and customer-centric services.
“The establishment of this Domestic Cargo Shed is a direct result of her visionary leadership, ensuring that our cargo operations adhere to the highest standards and using her phrase making our “airport for exports’’ a reality.
According to Thomas, the unveiling of the facility remained a significant step towards a more interconnected and economically vibrant Nigeria adding that it was the beginning.
He added that the next phase will be the full development of full-scale domestic cargo hubs at airports across the country.
“These hubs will go beyond being mere storage spaces, they will become state-of-the-art centers for logistics excellence, setting new industry standards and accelerating Nigeria’s aviation-driven economic growth” .