Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has stated that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms are creating a new landscape for state-led infrastructure development.
The Minister made these remarks during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Kogi State international cargo airport on Tuesday. He noted that the project is more than just a local aviation development, suggesting it is a direct result of the current federal economic direction.
Keyamo’s comments, made during the groundbreaking of the Kogi State international cargo airport, indicated that the development represents a broader shift in the country’s economic trajectory rather than a standalone aviation project.
Impact of cargo aviation on regional trade
The Kogi airport project is intended to leverage the state’s strategic position at the geographical centre of Nigeria. By establishing a dedicated cargo hub, the state aims to facilitate the movement of agricultural produce and manufactured goods from the North and Middle Belt regions to international markets.
Keyamo argued that the economic reforms initiated by the Tinubu administration provide the fiscal environment necessary for such large-scale projects. These reforms, which include adjustments to the fuel subsidy regime and foreign exchange policies, are designed to create a more transparent economy capable of supporting heavy infrastructure investment at both federal and state levels.
The development of cargo-specific aviation infrastructure is a priority for increasing non-oil exports. By providing specialised facilities for freight, the government aims to reduce the cost of doing business and improve the efficiency of supply chains across the country.
Industry analysts suggest that the Kogi facility could attract significant private sector interest in logistics, warehousing, and cold chain storage. These services are essential for reducing post-harvest losses in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, which remains a vital component of the national economy.
Construction of the airport is expected to begin following the ceremony, with the Kogi State government and the Federal Ministry of Aviation coordinating the implementation phases.
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