Nigeria’s Air Cargo Sector Urged to Embrace Technology for Efficiency, Cost Reduction

Aviation stakeholders have called on Nigeria’s air cargo sector to adopt modern technology to boost efficiency, cut operational costs, and strengthen competitiveness in global trade.

The call was made during a recent industry engagement where experts highlighted challenges facing cargo operations in the country, including poor infrastructure, limited automation, and inadequate tracking systems. These gaps, they warned, continue to undermine Nigeria’s ability to maximize revenue from cargo exports, particularly agricultural produce.

According to industry executives, outdated handling methods and insufficient cold-chain facilities often lead to delays and product losses, causing Nigerian exporters to suffer rejections abroad. They noted that investing in digital solutions for cargo processing, documentation, and real-time tracking would reduce such losses and improve compliance with international standards.

The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, underscored the importance of technology-driven reforms in the sector. She stressed that enhanced packaging, better storage facilities, and digital documentation are vital to reducing inefficiencies and attracting more global cargo business into the country.

Stakeholders also urged the Federal Government and regulators to provide policy support and incentives that would encourage operators to adopt innovative technologies. They argued that without urgent reforms, Nigeria risks falling behind regional competitors who are already modernising their air cargo systems.

By Oshuniran Sheriff Ola