Nigeria Partners RwandAir for Enhanced Exports

Nigeria's Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI) announced a partnership with RwandAir to create an air cargo corridor that will enhance the export of Nigerian goods to Eastern and Southern Africa. This initiative is part of Nigeria's implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to improve trade across the continent.

The corridor will offer Nigerian exporters a rebate rate of 70% below commercial carrier rates, significantly reducing cargo costs, which currently range from 3 to 10 per kilogram. The partnership will officially commence in June 2026 and will extend to new destinations including Kigali, Harar, and Lusaka, providing Nigerian exporters with alternative routes to Nairobi and Johannesburg.

Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, emphasized that this partnership is a practical step towards solving the challenges faced by Nigerian businesses in accessing African markets. The initiative is expected to increase Nigeria's non-oil exports to the African market from $150 million in 2024 to $207 million in 2025.