NIGERIA LAUNCHES AFCFTA AIR CORRIDOR, SLASHING EXPORT COSTS BY 75%

Nigeria’s new air corridor opens to Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa cuts export costs by up to 75%, boosting trade under AfCFTA.

Afcfta air corridor Nigeria export Intra-african trade
Officials during the launch of Nigeria's AfCFTA air corridor
Officials during the launch of Nigeria's AfCFTA air corridor

Nigeria has launched a groundbreaking air cargo corridor under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework, connecting its exporters to Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa. Announced on May 26, 2025, by Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, the initiative aims to reduce logistics costs by 50% to 75%, making Nigerian goods more competitive in key African markets. Operated by Uganda Airlines, the corridor facilitates faster delivery of textiles, cosmetics, and agro-processed products, with operations starting from Lagos and Abuja.

The launch, held at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, marks a significant step in Nigeria’s commitment to diversify non-oil exports, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s economic agenda. The corridor offers discounted air cargo rates to businesses affiliated with associations like the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and the Women Chamber of Commerce. Notably, the inaugural shipment featured products from women-owned businesses, highlighting Nigeria’s focus on inclusive trade.

Supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the initiative addresses longstanding trade barriers such as high transport costs and delays. The government also gazetted AfCFTA tariffs in April 2025, enabling zero duties on 90% of Nigerian exports to African markets. This aligns with AfCFTA’s goal to boost intra-African trade from 18% in 2022 to 50% by 2030.

Dr. Oduwole emphasized the corridor’s role in empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which form the backbone of Nigeria’s economy. An AfCFTA Market Insights Tool, developed with UNDP, will further help exporters navigate regulations and identify opportunities in East and Southern Africa. The initiative is expected to enhance regional trade, create jobs, and position Nigeria as a leader in AfCFTA implementation.

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