Imo Government Sets Deadline for Owerri Airport’s Airfield Lighting

The Imo State Government has embarked on a mission to enhance the aviation infrastructure at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri. A deadline has been set, and the government is committed to completing the installation of Airfield Lighting (AFL) by the end of October 2023.

This development was disclosed by Mrs. Rejoice Ndudinachi, the Owerri Airport Manager, during a fact-finding mission carried out by the Avia-cargo Roadmap Committee, established by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). The committee’s primary objective is to examine the challenges associated with cargo export in Nigeria and offer recommendations to bolster the country’s performance in the export trade.

Airfield Lighting (AFL) Takes Priority in Imo State
The installation of Airfield Lighting (AFL) at the Owerri Airport is of paramount importance to the Imo State Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodinma. Once the AFL is in place, Owerri Airport will join the ranks of airports like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, which offer sunset services. Mrs. Ndudinachi emphasized that Owerri Airport boasts the highest passenger traffic in the Southeast region, with cargo imports and exports that are among the nation’s most substantial. Its strategic location in close proximity to the Ariaria and Aba Markets in the state facilitates efficient cargo handling. Additionally, passengers from neighboring states, such as Edo, Anambra, and Cross River, frequently pass through the airport. Mrs. Ndudinachi commended Governor Uzodinma for prioritizing the installation of AFL and applauded the avia-cargo committee for conducting a thorough assessment of the facilities at the Cargo Airport.

Boosting Cargo Export: The Need of the Hour
Chairing the Avia-cargo Roadmap Committee, Mr. Ikechi Uko explained that the committee’s formation was initiated by the management of FAAN to critically examine the state of the air cargo business in Nigeria and propose solutions for its advancement. Mr. Uko expressed concern over the declining state of the air cargo industry in Nigeria and emphasized the committee’s role in conducting a fact-finding mission to gain firsthand insights into the sub-sector’s developments.

A Disturbing Trend: Ghana Takes the Lead in Exports
A particularly concerning aspect highlighted by Mr. Uko is the fact that despite Nigeria being the source of 71 percent of yam production in Africa, a significant portion of these yams are exported to Ghana, from where they are further shipped to Europe. It is noteworthy that 95 percent of all yam exports from Africa originate from Ghana, despite Nigeria being the primary producer of this crop on the continent. This trade deficit underscores the need for a more robust cargo export infrastructure in Nigeria.

Furthermore, Mr. Uko drew attention to the fact that Ghana imports eggs from Belgium while Nigeria’s egg production goes to waste within the country. Despite the presence of nearly 20 cargo airports across Nigeria, there is a lamentable lack of effective distribution channels for goods, resulting in substantial losses.

Utilizing Existing Resources for Domestic and International Cargo
Mr. Uko emphasized the importance of tapping into the existing cargo airport infrastructure in Nigeria. He stressed that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) recognizes the need to maximize the utilization of the nation’s aviation assets, rather than investing in new infrastructure. The committee’s role is not to introduce new elements but to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the cargo distribution network that already exists.

Strengthening Domestic Cargo to Enable International Export
The committee’s mandate is not limited to addressing domestic cargo issues. It is also tasked with strengthening the international cargo export sector. Mr. Uko asserted that Nigeria’s performance in international cargo exports has room for improvement, and the committee is determined to identify the necessary steps and guidelines to bridge this gap. In essence, the committee aims to outline the path from the current state of the cargo industry to where it needs to be in terms of international trade.

In conclusion, the Imo State Government is prioritizing the installation of Airfield Lighting (AFL) at Owerri Airport, recognizing its significance in enhancing aviation infrastructure. The Avia-cargo Roadmap Committee’s fact-finding mission underscores the pressing need to bolster cargo export in Nigeria and capitalize on the existing cargo airports to strengthen domestic and international trade. The committee is poised to play a pivotal role in charting a path toward a more robust and efficient cargo export ecosystem, benefiting both the domestic and international markets.