The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Uganda Airlines, has officially launched the Nigeria–East/Southern Africa Air Cargo Corridor—a transformative export initiative under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
The inaugural cargo shipment featured a diverse basket of Made-in-Nigeria products—including textiles, cosmetics, fashion accessories, and agro-processed goods—marking the beginning of a new era for Nigerian exports into African markets. Notably, all exporters on this historic flight were women. These female entrepreneurs were recognised as pioneers, leading the charge in positioning Nigerian enterprises at the forefront of intra-African trade.
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Speaking at the landmark event held on Africa Day at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Oduwole, said that the new air corridor will provide Nigerian exporters with access to three key African hubs—Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa—with air cargo rates discounted between 50-75 percent reduction in logistics cost (including regulatory charges).
This initiative marks the fulfilment of a key campaign promise by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—to accelerate the diversification of Nigeria’s non-oil exports by leveraging the opportunities presented by the AfCFTA.
The Federal Government remains committed to supporting Nigerian businesses in scaling their exports across the continent.
Specifically designed to empower Nigerian enterprises, particularly MSMEs, this initiative enables them to expand into African markets with greater confidence, lower costs, faster delivery timelines, and reduced risk. The preferential cargo rates will apply to businesses affiliated with leading national business associations, including NACCIMA, NASME, NASSI, and WCCIMA, ensuring inclusive participation and coordinated implementation.
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This milestone follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR’s approval and the formal gazetting of Nigeria’s Provisional Schedule of Tariff Concessions (PSTCs) in April 2025. With support from the UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa, the Ministry has worked to position Nigeria not just as a participant in AfCFTA but as a leader in shaping and advancing the agreement’s implementation.
Operating from Lagos and Abuja, the corridor is backed by strong government collaboration, in her remarks, the Oduwole expressed appreciation to the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, the Minister of Aviation, as well as the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, and the MD/CEO, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, for facilitating and being instrumental to the day’s successful launch.
“AfCFTA tariffs are now gazetted, allowing Nigerian goods to benefit from lower tariffs across African markets. As we mark Africa Day, I want to especially commend and thank the indefatigable Nigerian businesses that are sending shipments on this inaugural flight. Today, they export a diverse product basket – textiles, bags, cosmetics, agro-processed products and more to our African partners. This Administration will continue to stand with you as you take bigger and bolder leaps to expand your footprint across Africa.
