In a significant move aimed at modernizing Nigeria's aviation logistics infrastructure, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has officially commissioned a state-of-the-art domestic cargo processing facility at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in Lagos. The inauguration ceremony, held on Friday, May 9, 2025, marks a key milestone in FAAN's ongoing efforts to enhance the efficiency, safety, and reliability of cargo operations within the country.

The unveiling of the new terminal was presided over by the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Ms. Joy Agunbiade, who represented FAAN’s Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku. According to a statement released by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, this development is a crucial step in the authority's broader strategy to upgrade aviation logistics across Nigeria.

Strategically designed to cater to the growing demands of domestic cargo handling, the newly commissioned facility is expected to significantly boost scalability and connectivity within the sector. FAAN highlighted that the terminal's enhanced capabilities will provide dependable and secure logistics solutions, particularly crucial given the increasing prominence of e-commerce and the need to efficiently transport agricultural exports.

By addressing long-standing bottlenecks that have often plagued domestic cargo handling, the new terminal is poised to offer substantial support to businesses nationwide, facilitating a smoother flow of goods across the country. A central objective of the facility is to alleviate persistent challenges associated with domestic cargo logistics, notably the transportation of agricultural produce and goods originating from online retail platforms.

With its advanced processing capabilities, the terminal is projected to bring about a considerable improvement in the speed, reliability, and overall ease of cargo movement. This enhancement is expected to provide much-needed relief to a wide range of stakeholders, including producers, exporters, and logistics service providers operating within Nigeria.

This pivotal project is an integral part of a larger initiative championed by the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and is being implemented through the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services, under the leadership of Mr. Lekan Thomas. 

Looking ahead, FAAN has ambitious plans to replicate this successful model in other strategically important locations across Nigeria, including Abuja, Kano, Jos, Niger, and Port Harcourt. This nationwide roadmap aims to establish a robust and interconnected air cargo network throughout the country.

The newly inaugurated facility in Lagos not only strengthens the city's position as a vital hub within Nigeria’s expanding air freight ecosystem but also provides a modern, technology-driven platform designed to fortify and streamline supply chains. 

As the demand for faster and more efficient logistics continues to rise, particularly within the burgeoning agricultural and digital commerce sectors, this new domestic cargo terminal represents a significant step forward in meeting these critical needs.