Nigeria’s Federal Airports Authority has introduced air cargo reforms designed to strengthen the aviation sector’s capacity to support non‑oil exports through infrastructure development and revenue reforms.
Non‑oil exports are a key component of Nigeria’s economic diversification strategy.
Challenges such as logistical inefficiencies and limited cold chain facilities have historically constrained the country’s ability to compete in global markets for agricultural and manufactured goods.
Air cargo reforms aim to address these barriers by enhancing freight infrastructure and operational processes at major airports, particularly in Lagos.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) established a dedicated Cargo Development Directorate to drive improvements in freight handling and export facilitation.
The directorate was created in December 2024 by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to focus on cargo infrastructure and services.
In May 2025, FAAN commissioned a new domestic cargo terminal at the General Aviation Terminal in Lagos to increase cargo handling capacity and reduce bottlenecks. FAAN plans to expand similar facilities in Abuja and Kano to support nationwide cargo operations.
Officials said the reforms include enhanced engagement with stakeholders across the export value chain, such as freight forwarders, customs officials, and ground handlers, to improve efficiency in cargo movement.
FAAN also resumed direct cargo revenue collection at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport terminal after a 15‑year pause. This measure seeks to improve accountability and plug revenue leakages.
A proposed increase in cargo tariffs prompted industry debate. FAAN initially raised cargo charges from ₦7 to ₦25 per kilogram, before a negotiated compromise set the tariff at ₦15 per kilogram. FAAN has stated that tariff adjustments are needed to sustain operations.
The reforms are intended to position Nigeria’s aviation sector as a logistics partner for exporters rather than merely a passenger transport system.
Investments in cargo infrastructure and process improvements could support access to new markets for agricultural and perishable products.
Continued engagement with industry stakeholders and phased facility expansions will shape the next phase of reforms.
