The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Uganda Airlines, has officially launched the Nigeria–East/Southern Africa Air Cargo Corridor.

This initiative, unveiled on Africa Day at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, aims to boost Nigerian exports by providing access to three key African hubs—Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa—with air cargo rates discounted between 50-75%, significantly reducing logistics costs, including regulatory charges.

Speaking at the landmark event, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, emphasized that this air corridor will open new trade opportunities for Nigerian exporters, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative is designed to reduce trade risks, improve delivery timelines, and lower operational costs, ensuring businesses can compete more effectively across African markets.

The government has tailored preferential cargo rates for businesses affiliated with leading national associations, such as NACCIMA, NASME, NASSI, and WCCIMA, fostering broader participation in intra-African trade.

The launch follows President Bola Tinubu’s approval and the formal gazetting of Nigeria’s Provisional Schedule of Tariff Concessions in April 2025, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The first cargo shipment featured a variety of Made-in-Nigeria products, including textiles, cosmetics, fashion accessories, and agro-processed goods. Notably, all exporters on this historic flight were women-owned businesses, showcasing the critical role of female entrepreneurs in Nigeria’s trade expansion.