FG Launches Air Cargo Route to Africa with 50% Discount for Exporters

 


The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Uganda Airlines, has launched the Nigeria–East/Southern Africa Air Cargo Corridor. This major export initiative is part of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) plan.

Speaking at the launch event on Africa Day at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, said the new cargo route will give Nigerian exporters easier access to Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa. Exporters will also enjoy a 50% to 75% discount on logistics costs, including regulatory charges.

This move supports President Bola Tinubu’s promise to grow Nigeria’s non-oil exports by using AfCFTA to open up trade across Africa.

The corridor is designed to help Nigerian businesses—especially small and medium-sized ones (MSMEs)—grow their reach into other African countries with cheaper shipping, faster delivery, and less risk.

Businesses that are members of key associations like the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Entrepreneurs, Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists, and Women Chamber of Commerce will benefit from the discounted rates. This ensures that many different groups can take part.

This project follows the President’s approval of Nigeria’s Provisional Schedule of Tariff Concessions, which was officially published in April 2025.

With support from the UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa, the Ministry is positioning Nigeria as a key player in making AfCFTA work effectively.

The cargo flights will operate from Lagos and Abuja, with strong backing from the federal government.

During her speech, Minister Oduwole thanked the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Aviation, the Comptroller General of Customs, and the MD/CEO of the Federal Airports Authority for their help in making the project a success.

The first shipment included a variety of Made-in-Nigeria products like textiles, cosmetics, fashion items, and agro-processed goods. All the exporters on this flight were women-owned businesses, showing women’s strong role in African trade.

“The AfCFTA tariffs are now official, which means Nigerian goods will enjoy lower tariffs in other African markets,” the Minister said.

“As we celebrate Africa Day, I want to thank the hardworking Nigerian businesses on this first flight. You’re exporting everything from bags to cosmetics and food products. This government will continue to support you as you grow and take Nigerian products across the continent.”

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