The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has officially opened a new domestic cargo terminal at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in Lagos. The project is aimed at improving the efficiency of cargo handling and enhancing the country’s logistics infrastructure.
Delivering remarks at the event on behalf of FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Mrs. Adebola Agunbiade, described cargo transport as essential to facilitating trade and economic activity both locally and internationally.
She emphasized that the movement of cargo underpins a wide range of economic sectors, supporting businesses and driving growth across Nigeria. As demand for e-commerce and agricultural exports continues to rise, Kuku highlighted the need for reliable and secure logistics systems.
Boost in supply chains
According to her, the newly commissioned terminal is designed to support faster and more efficient trade processes, offering scalable infrastructure to meet future demand. She noted that this facility represents a major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s domestic supply chains and increasing overall cargo volumes.
She also explained that Lagos, being Nigeria’s commercial capital, requires robust infrastructure to support growing cargo movement and attract more freight operators. FAAN has also announced plans to construct similar cargo terminals in other regions such as Abuja, Kano, Jos, and Niger State, where land availability supports expansion. The Authority is seeking to collaborate with state governments and private investors to broaden the reach of cargo services nationwide.
Mrs. Kuku commended Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, for establishing the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services, a strategic move aimed at driving growth in the sector. Speaking at the event, the Director of Cargo Development and Services, Mr. Lekan Thomas, said the terminal is a concrete outcome of Nigeria’s renewed efforts to improve logistics and economic infrastructure. He noted that this aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
He shared that in 2023, Nigeria processed approximately 174,000 metric tonnes of air freight, placing it among Africa’s leading cargo markets. Around 65% of this volume consisted of imported goods such as pharmaceuticals, machinery, and perishables. On the export side, there is steady growth in products like fresh produce, minerals, and textiles.
Thomas cited projections from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which estimate Nigeria’s air cargo sector will grow by 5% annually over the next five years. He also reiterated Lagos’ strategic role in driving national logistics development. He praised both FAAN’s leadership and the Aviation Ministry for their shared commitment in turning policy into visible progress.