Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, officially unveiled the N1 billion NAHCO Export Processing and Packaging Centre at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos on Friday.
The cutting-edge facility, funded by the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO), aims to revolutionize cargo exports by addressing critical concerns related to shelf life, temperature control, packaging, handling, and regulatory compliance.
Represented by the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, Keyamo emphasized the center’s pivotal role in overcoming challenges associated with exporting perishable goods.
He expressed optimism that the facility would boost Nigeria’s export numbers, positively impacting the country’s balance of payment position and strengthening the Naira.
NAHCO, a prominent air transportation support service company in Nigeria, invested N1 billion in the facility two weeks prior to the official unveiling.
The company offers comprehensive ground handling services, cargo handling, power distribution, and fueling for Nigeria’s air transport industry.
In December, Keyamo established the cargo services directorate in FAAN, further emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing freight services, fostering innovation, and addressing challenges in the sector.
Kuku, who assumed office as FAAN DG in December, commended NAHCO for its innovative approach to business and highlighted FAAN’s dedication to promoting cargo development.
Seinde Fadeni, Chairman of NAHCO, expressed gratitude for the government’s support in alleviating business challenges. He reiterated NAHCO’s belief in Nigeria’s potential for food exports and emphasized the critical role of government support in realizing this vision. Fadeni urged the government to continue supporting the aviation industry’s efforts to move Nigeria forward.
