FG Launches Air Cargo Route to Expand Trade Across Africa
The Federal Government has launched a dedicated air cargo route linking Nigeria with East and Southern Africa in a move aimed at strengthening intra-African trade, improving regional connectivity and accelerating economic integration across the continent.
The initiative was officially unveiled on Friday by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, alongside the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, during the inauguration of RwandAir’s first dedicated cargo flight on the Nigeria–East/Southern Africa corridor.
According to a statement issued by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the aviation minister, the launch represents a significant milestone under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The government said the new cargo service is expected to unlock fresh opportunities for Nigerian exporters by providing easier access to markets across East and Southern Africa, while also strengthening regional supply chains and expanding continental trade.
Speaking at the launch, Keyamo highlighted the strategic importance of improving air connectivity as a foundation for expanding Africa’s economic potential.
“I am excited to be here with my sister, the honourable minister of industry, trade and investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, to supervise and launch this effort in support and consonance with the principles and letters of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” he said.
“You cannot transform African trade without connecting Africa first.”
The minister noted that the successful implementation of the route reflects the government’s broader ambition to position the aviation sector as a key driver of economic growth, industrial development, trade facilitation and regional integration.
He added that the initiative aligns with the objectives of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), which seeks to liberalise air transport services across Africa and eliminate barriers that hinder trade and movement between African countries.
The new air cargo corridor is expected to provide faster, more efficient and dependable logistics solutions, particularly for exporters operating within Nigeria’s agricultural, pharmaceutical, manufacturing and non-oil sectors.
Officials say the development could significantly increase trade volumes and contribute to broader economic growth across the continent.
The launch ceremony was attended by government officials, exporters, aviation stakeholders, trade representatives and executives from RwandAir.
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