Lagos: In a bid to tackle the ?3.5 trillion agro-produce wastage annually, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Plateau Government have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to transform Yakubu Gowon Airport in Jos into a leading hub for food cargo and agro-export logistics.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the agreement marks a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s agricultural export infrastructure. Under the terms, FAAN will provide professional support, security, and guidance, while the Plateau Government will fund the necessary upgrades to the airport.
FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, emphasized the urgency of the initiative, stating that the annual loss of ?3.5 trillion in food produce, while global markets demand Nigerian products, necessitates immediate action. The visit of the Plateau Governor to FAAN’s headquarters in Lagos symbolizes a significant shift towards boosting agro-exports.
Kuku elaborated that the transformation of Yakubu Gowon Airport into a premier food cargo terminal is aimed at creating opportunities, empowering farmers, and elevating Plateau’s agricultural produce to international markets. She highlighted the initiative as a model of collaboration aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy by 2030.
Calling on investors, Kuku urged prompt engagement with the new opportunities arising from this partnership, emphasizing the rich resources of Plateau and FAAN’s expertise as key components. She encouraged stakeholders to act swiftly to capitalize on the demand for Nigerian produce in global markets.
