Nigeria–East/Southern Africa Air Cargo Route To Boost Continental Trade — Keyamo

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has described the Nigeria–East/Southern Africa Air Cargo Route as a major step towards unlocking Africa’s trade potential through improved air connectivity.

Keyamo made the remark during the flag-off of RwandaAir’s first dedicated cargo flight on the route at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. The event was held alongside the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole.

The Minister said the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by creating new opportunities for Nigerian exporters to access markets in East and Southern Africa while strengthening regional supply chains.

According to him, aviation plays a critical role in facilitating trade, investment, and economic integration across the continent, adding that improved connectivity is essential to achieving the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“We are here with some of our exporters; this is where aviation interlines with trade and investment. You cannot transform African trade without connecting Africa first,” Keyamo said.

He noted that the launch of the cargo route demonstrates the government’s commitment to using aviation as a driver of economic growth, industrial development, and regional cooperation.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), which seeks to liberalise air transport services across Africa and promote seamless movement of goods and people among member states.

The new cargo route is expected to provide faster and more efficient logistics solutions for exporters in key sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and non-oil exports.

Keyamo said the initiative would contribute to increased trade volumes, stronger economic ties, and greater opportunities for businesses across Africa.

The flag-off ceremony was attended by government officials, aviation stakeholders, exporters, trade representatives, and executives of RwandaAir, who expressed commitment to advancing a more connected and economically integrated African market through aviation.