The Nigerian government has officially launched the Nigeria–East/Southern Africa Air Cargo Corridor, a strategic initiative aimed at boosting exports to Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa. This development aligns with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and seeks to cut down on export-related expenses while improving the efficiency of cargo deliveries.
Operating out of both Abuja and Lagos, the new cargo route offers exporters significant cost savings, with air freight rates reduced by 50% to 75%. This initiative is particularly designed to benefit micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by lowering logistical barriers and enhancing their ability to reach key African markets.
The launch event took place at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, coinciding with Africa Day celebrations. Speaking at the event, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting non-oil export growth and positioning Nigerian products competitively across the continent.
Nigeria–East/Southern Africa Air Cargo Corridor
The first shipment through the corridor included a variety of locally made goods such as cosmetics, textiles, fashion accessories, and agro-processed products. Notably, all the exporters involved in this inaugural flight were female entrepreneurs, highlighting the government’s effort to promote inclusive economic participation.
The program is supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Uganda Airlines, and involves collaboration with key government agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Aviation, Nigeria Customs Service, and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
Businesses participating in the program must be affiliated with recognized national trade associations such as: Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists (NASSI), Women Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (WCCIMA).
Following the formal gazetting of Nigeria’s Provisional Schedule of Tariff Concessions in April 2025, Nigerian goods now enjoy preferential tariff treatment under AfCFTA, further enhancing the competitiveness of exports.
This initiative is a core part of President Bola Tinubu’s economic diversification agenda, aimed at reducing reliance on oil revenues and expanding Nigeria’s footprint in continental trade. The corridor underscores Nigeria’s leadership role in advancing AfCFTA goals and promoting regional integration through practical trade facilitation efforts.
Source : LOGISTICS UPDATE AFRICA
