By ITOHAN ABARA-LASERIAN

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Friday inaugurated its Domestic Cargo Terminal at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in Lagos.

FAAN?s Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, in her opening remarks, described cargo as a trade enabler that drives both domestic and international commerce.

Mrs Kuku was represented by the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Mrs Adebola Agunbiade, at the event.

She stated that cargo movement is the lifeblood of commerce, supporting industries, powering businesses, and creating economic opportunities across the nation.

?As e-commerce expands and agricultural exports rise, reliable and secure logistics are more vital than ever,? Kuku noted.

She added that the facility was designed to fast-track trade, boost efficiency, and prepare Nigeria for future growth.

?This domestic cargo terminal symbolises speed, efficiency, scalability, and improved logistics within the country,? she said.

Kuku added that the impact would be seen in higher aviation revenue and stronger business supply chains nationwide.

She said the terminal would also help increase Nigeria?s international cargo volumes over time.

?As Nigeria?s economic hub, Lagos needs a reliable cargo centre to attract more national freight operators,? she explained.

She revealed FAAN?s plans to replicate similar terminals in Abuja, Kano, Jos, and Niger, where space is less constrained.

Kuku said FAAN is exploring partnerships with states and private stakeholders to expand cargo logistics across Nigeria.

She praised the vision of Aviation Minister Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, for creating the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services.

Kuku commended the directorate for completing and equipping the domestic cargo facility.

FAAN?s Director of Cargo Development and Services, Mr Lekan Thomas, said the directorate supports President Tinubu?s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Thomas added the commissioning reflects real progress and new economic prospects, not just aspirations.

?Nigeria handled around 174,000 metric tonnes of air freight in 2023, making it one of Africa?s top cargo markets,? he said.

He noted that 65 per cent of the volume was imports, including pharmaceuticals, machinery, and perishables.

Nigeria?s exports, he said, continue to grow, driven by demand for produce, minerals, and textiles.

Thomas said IATA projects Nigeria?s air cargo market to grow 5 per cent annually over the next five years.

He added that Lagos, as the commercial heart of Nigeria, is key to national logistics development.

Thomas praised the aviation minister and FAAN leadership for their commitment and vision in realising the terminal. (NAN)

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