Stakeholders urge digital reforms to strengthen air cargo

Aviation experts under the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Nigeria have proposed a series of strategic reforms to strengthen the country’s air cargo sector, urging the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria to lead a full-scale transformation that aligns with global standards.

The experts called for the development of state-of-the-art cargo villages at major airports, equipped with cold-chain systems, automated handling equipment, and renewable energy installations.

The President of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Nigeria, Dr. Alexander Nwuba, made this call while delivering a paper titled “Building a World-Class Air Cargo Ecosystem” during a stakeholders’ engagement on cargo recently in Lagos.

Citing Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as a model, Nwuba explained that its advanced cold-chain facilities and traceability systems enable perishable exports to reach global markets swiftly and sustainably.

He also recommended a single-window digital clearance platform and harmonised operating procedures across all relevant agencies. Additionally, he proposed what he called a “Cargo Bill of Rights” to protect shippers, handlers, and consumers. Nwuba referenced Ghana’s digital customs system as an example of improved efficiency and reduced bottlenecks.

He further emphasised the need for electronic documentation, blockchain-enabled traceability, barcoding, and data analytics to enhance compliance and operational transparency.

Regular training for cargo handlers, regulators, and logistics professionals was described as essential. Nwuba proposed that such training should incorporate environmental stewardship and engage local communities and environmental groups.

He urged the expansion of credit and insurance access for exporters, including green financing options. Public-private partnerships—similar to those seen in Kenya’s logistics sector—were identified as crucial for unlocking investment in infrastructure and technology.

Outlining the key pillars of his proposed transformation, Nwuba said, “We must develop state-of-the-art cargo villages at major airports, equipped with cold-chain facilities, automated handling, and renewable energy systems such as solar panels.

“For example, Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has implemented advanced cold-chain infrastructure and farm-to-fork traceability, ensuring that perishable goods reach global markets efficiently and sustainably. Regional hubs must be upgraded with sustainable transport links, and all facilities should incorporate natural ventilation, daylighting, and rainwater harvesting.

“We need a single-window digital clearance platform, harmonized operating procedures, and a Cargo Bill of Rights that protects shippers, handlers, consumers, and the environment. Ghana has pioneered advanced digital customs and regional trade facilitation, streamlining processes and reducing paperwork, thereby improving efficiency and environmental outcomes.

“Electronic documentation, traceability tools such as barcodes and blockchain, and data analytics will help us monitor performance and environmental metrics. Ethiopia’s cargo terminals operate 24/7 and use integrated digital systems to ensure compliance with EU standards, including strict environmental requirements.”

In his remarks, the Director of Cargo Services at FAAN, Lekan Thomas, said the establishment of the Directorate was intended to serve as the engine room for dismantling barriers, resolving persistent challenges, and forging the partnerships required to advance the nation’s cargo ambitions.

Aligning with the call of the FAAN Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, for a genuine “partner–partner relationship,” the Directorate stated that it has developed a comprehensive roadmap whose success “will depend largely on the integration of stakeholders’ expertise and insights.”

Earlier, while declaring the event open, the FAAN Managing Director, represented by the Director of Special Duties, Obiageli Orah, sought stakeholders’ contributions toward addressing longstanding challenges in infrastructure, ground handling, and operational efficiency, while creating an enabling environment for trade and export growth.

Emphasising the collaborative nature of the initiative, she said, “This session marks a fundamental pivot; a shift from the old, transactional operator-stakeholder dynamic to a true, collaborative partner-partner relationship. Your expertise, your challenges, and your innovative ideas are not just welcomed; they are the critical ingredients for our collective success.”

She urged participants to co-create solutions that would position Nigeria as a strategic gateway connecting Africa to global markets.