In a bid to transform the chaotic state of Nigeria’s cargo terminals, the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services, Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, has embarked on an ambitious project to sanitize the cargo process, starting with Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos.
The initiative, which aligns with international best practices, seeks to introduce efficiency, security, and regulatory compliance, making Nigeria’s cargo industry more competitive on the global stage.
Tackling the Chaos: A Market No More
For years, the cargo terminal has operated more like an open-air market than a structured logistics hub. Unauthorized personnel, multiple regulatory bottlenecks, and a lack of standard infrastructure have hindered smooth cargo operations, leading to delays, financial losses, and inefficiencies.
This disorder has also impacted Nigeria’s ability to export goods seamlessly, as many products perish before they can even leave the country.
Recognizing these challenges, the directorate is systematically identifying and registering only those with legitimate business in the terminal. A biometric access control system is being introduced to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the facility.
Truck drivers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers will now require proof of cargo-related activity before gaining entry.
A Structured Approach to Reform
The restructuring process is happening in phases. The first step involves documentation and registration of all stakeholders, including customs, licensed agents, airline staff, and ground handlers. Currently, 85% of customs brokers have been on boarded, with plans to extend this to truck drivers soon.
The next phase involves infrastructural development. The directorate is working on creating designated areas for sorting, temporary storage, and customs examination. This will reduce human interference in the cargo process and streamline operations. State-of-the-art screening machines will be installed to enhance security and compliance with international aviation standards.
Clearing Unauthorized Businesses
As part of the clean-up, makeshift stalls and businesses within the terminal premise, ranging from food vendors to mobile phone sellers—have been cleared out.
“In no modern cargo terminal do you find traders selling yam, fufu, or running lottery stalls like Baba Ijebu within the premises. We are repurposing these spaces for proper cargo operations,” an official stated.
The recently sealed-off space opposite SAHCO, near the NDLEA office, will now be used for proper cargo facilities. These will include sorting areas, examination bays, and packaging zones equipped with modern technology to eliminate unnecessary delays.
Government Agencies and Stakeholders on Board
With multiple agencies operating within the terminal, coordination is crucial. The directorate has engaged key stakeholders, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Customs Service, and the police, to ensure seamless integration of the new processes. The agencies have expressed full support for the reforms, recognizing their long-term benefits.
Government security agencies stationed within the terminal, such as the NDLEA, will be part of the biometric registration process. This ensures they retain necessary access while still adhering to the new regulations. Special provisions will also be made for one-time visitors who need temporary access to the terminal.
A New Access Control System
The new security framework includes biometric checks at all entry points to ensure only authorized personnel can enter. Plans are also in place to automate the gates, reducing human interference from security agencies and streamlining entry and exit processes.
The previously shut access gate remains closed for now, pending the completion of the sanitization process. Officials have noted that reopening it prematurely could worsen congestion and accidents in the area.
Implementation Timeline
The registration process, which began recently, is set to conclude by March 31. Those who fail to onboard within this period will lose access to the terminal.
The next phase will involve verification and biometric capture, with full automation of the gate system expected by June.
This transformation marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s aviation and logistics industry. With a structured, efficient, and secure cargo terminal, the country stands to gain economically, facilitating smoother trade and positioning itself as a key player in the global logistics sector.
The directorate remains committed to ensuring these reforms are fully implemented, despite expected resistance from those accustomed to the old ways of doing business.
A new era for Nigeria’s cargo industry is on the horizon, one driven by efficiency, compliance, and global best practices.
