The federal government at the weekend took a further step to unlock the $250bn agro-export potential with the inauguration of the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) PLC’s Export Packaging and Processing Centre worth about N1 billion at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
The facility, which is a one-stop shop for packaging and processing of agricultural products for export, was commissioned by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo.
Keyamo, who was represented by the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, stated that the facility would address issues of rejection of perishable goods.
“Nigeria currently stands at a crucial juncture, as the export business offers immense opportunities for economic growth and development.
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“This is why I am most excited about this facility’s opening for business. With the equipment, expertise and offices here, most of the challenges of exporting perishable goods will be highly mitigated.
The FAAN MD stated that the creation of a cargo directorate by the minister was to boost air freighting and revenue for the government.
“It is designed to ameliorate the problems in the sector and bring innovative ideas to life,” the MD stated.
The Chairman of NAHCO, Dr Seinde Fadeni, stated that Nigeria can earn a lot of foreign exchange from exports in addition to generating employment for the people.
“The livelihood and indeed prosperity of many Nigerians depend on the export of perishables. The government should summon a meeting of all relevant stakeholders to deliberate on the best way to move this segment forward.
“And to all our stakeholders, the airlines, the agents, exporters, farmers, I tell you this today: NAHCO is ready for export business. You cannot get this facility anywhere else in Nigeria. It is built with you in mind,” he said.
