The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Firstway FZE and Global Software & Digital Solution (GSDS) to strengthen cargo information security in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The agreement provides a framework for implementing the Pre-Loading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) system in Nigeria. The initial phase will focus on inbound air cargo, while also supporting technology deployment, stakeholder onboarding and operational assessment. The initiative is expected to strengthen controls around cargo before it is loaded onto aircraft.
Cargo Information Framework Targets Air Cargo Security
The PLACI framework is designed to improve the availability and assessment of advance cargo information before goods are loaded for air transportation. Therefore, its implementation could give relevant authorities greater visibility over shipments moving through Nigeria’s aviation supply chain.
For Nigeria, the development comes as the aviation sector continues to place greater emphasis on security, compliance and the use of technology. In addition, stronger cargo information systems can support more structured coordination among regulators, airlines, cargo handlers, freight forwarders and other stakeholders.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Director General Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, described the agreement as an important milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s aviation security architecture.
He said the initiative should contribute to a safer, more secure and internationally compliant air cargo system. However, Capt. Najomo stressed that the signing should not be regarded as the conclusion of the process.
According to the DGCA, the agreement marked the beginning of the actual implementation work. He urged the participating organisations to remain focused and follow the agreed processes carefully.
“Do not let your guard down,” Capt. Najomo told the partners, stressing the importance of proper implementation. He also assured the parties that any ambiguity that emerged during the process could be brought back for discussion and clarification.
Implementation Will Require Stakeholder Coordination
The implementation of the PLACI framework will require coordination across several parts of the air cargo chain. This includes technology providers, regulators, cargo operators and other organisations responsible for processing and handling shipments.
Meanwhile, the companies involved said preparations for the agreement had taken several months. Speaking on behalf of Firstway FZE and GSDS, Mr Peter Igbinedion said the project had taken about nine to ten months, or even longer, to reach the signing stage.
Igbinedion assured the NCAA of the companies’ commitment to delivering the project successfully. He said the organisations were prepared to work with the Authority and would not let it down.
He also expressed appreciation to the Director General Civil Aviation, the NCAA directors and the wider Authority for giving the companies the opportunity to contribute to the initiative.
The lengthy process behind the agreement was also highlighted by the NCAA’s legal department. Director of Legal Services and Company Secretary, Mrs Mary Tufano-Eche, said the period leading to the signing was deliberate.
According to her, the process was necessary to protect the Authority’s interests and preserve the integrity of the arrangement. She described the initiative as a significant step for Nigeria in an emerging area of air cargo security.
Tufano-Eche said Nigeria was taking a “quantum leap” with the initiative. However, she acknowledged that the MoU could evolve as implementation progresses.
She explained that the agreement should be viewed as a living document. This means provisions could be reviewed and amended where necessary as the project develops.
Nigeria Moves Towards More Structured Cargo Information
The focus on advance cargo information reflects the growing importance of early data in aviation security. Before cargo reaches an aircraft, relevant information can help authorities and other stakeholders identify potential concerns and determine appropriate responses.
For Nigeria, the initial emphasis on inbound cargo provides a starting point for testing the framework. The experience gained during implementation could also inform future expansion of the system.
The NCAA has existing regulatory responsibilities covering air cargo operations, including requirements for cargo handling, dangerous goods and freight forwarding. Its published guidance also requires security controls for goods moving through the air cargo chain.
The PLACI initiative therefore adds another layer to the wider security framework. It combines regulatory oversight with technology and advance data to improve the handling of cargo information.
