The Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), with valuable input from the Aviacargo Roadmap Committee, has launched a pilot project for exports through four selected airports. Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, MD/CE of FAAN, has requested a quick implementation schedule from the committee.
The meeting held in Lagos highlighted Lagos, Kano, Enugu, and Jos as the chosen airports for the export pilot project.
Mr. Ikechi Uko, Coordinator of the Committee, briefed FAAN MD on progress. This meeting marked the first in over ten months. The roadmap team includes members from the Lead team, NAQS, SON, NAGAFF, Link Global, NAHCO, and ANLCA.
Uko explained, “We will trial perishables export from farm to Lagos Airport within 24 hours for efficiency testing.” Another trial will handle cereals through Kano Airport. Exports will also be tested through Enugu and Jos Airports.”
“These trial runs aim to test the effectiveness of the Air Cargo Pathway developed by the Roadmap Committee,” he added. Stakeholders from the Air Cargo ecosystem will be involved. Other government agencies participating include NEPC, NAFDAC, SON, NAQS, NDLEA, and Nigerian Customs.
Uko thanked the MD for meeting with the team and renewing FAAN’s commitment to the project, started in December 2022. The committee’s goal is to elevate Nigeria’s air cargo ranking from 5th to 1st in Africa.
However, the project faced disruptions due to three changes in FAAN’s leadership within 12 months, with Mrs. Kuku assuming the role in December 2023. These changes halted the project as all meetings ceased until FAAN’s team settled. During this period, FAAN implemented some committee suggestions, including creating a new directorate for cargo development and services.
The committee commended Mr. Lekan Thomas, Director of Cargo Development and Services, for his efforts in implementing action plans. His initiatives include reducing human traffic in cargo terminals and improving processes to align with global standards.
Earlier, Mrs. Kuku requested a faster implementation schedule from the Aviacargo Roadmap Committee, emphasizing, “Air Cargo is of great importance to this Government. We want things done a little faster.”
She praised the committee for their dedication and encouraged them to expedite the project now that FAAN has reinforced its support. The FAAN MD received the team along with FAAN Directors of Special Duties, Legal Services, and Cargo Development and Services.
