Nigeria Launches Air Cargo Corridor, Cuts Export Costs

Nigeria has inaugurated an air cargo corridor in partnership with RwandAir, significantly reducing export costs by over 50%. Dr. Jumoke Oduwol, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, described this initiative as a strategic intervention to address high freight costs that challenge exports.

The export cargo rate has dropped from 3 to 10 per kilogram to less than 2 per kilogram, making Nigerian products more competitive in the regional market. The corridor recorded a 40% increase in export volume during its first year of operation, indicating a rise in demand for locally produced goods across African countries.

The initiative aligns with the federal government's strategy to expand non-oil exports and maximize opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation, announced plans for a direct cargo route from Gwangju, China, to Enugu International Airport, scheduled to commence in December 2026.

The corridor aims to strengthen trade relations and facilitate smoother movement of goods within Africa.