The Kwara State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Alabi has announced plans by the state government for the commencement of cargo services at Ilorin’s General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport.
The Commissioner stated this when he attended an event organized by the Federal Aircraft Authority of Nigeria. (FAAN)
According to him, the initiative is aimed at positioning Kwara State as a hub for agricultural and commercial exports, strengthening its role in national and international trade.
Alabi emphasized that the project aligns with the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq in opening new export channels, improving market access, and boosting incomes for producers and businesses.
He noted that the cargo services will facilitate the efficient movement of goods from farms, factories, and workshops to domestic and global markets, supporting value addition, processing, and packaging across sectors.
The Commissioner highlighted that the initiative will reduce post-production losses, preserve product quality, and expand opportunities for trade in agricultural, industrial, and processed goods.
He added that with existing congestion at Lagos ports and airports, Ilorin offers a strategic alternative for timely and reliable exports, further enhancing Kwara’s competitiveness.
He commended the Governor’s infrastructure drive, including road construction connecting rural and industrial communities to major markets, stressing that the cargo services will transform locally produced goods into export-ready consignments and attract investment to the State.
Alabi therefore called on farmers, cooperatives, manufacturers, investors, transport unions, traders, processors, and regulatory agencies to collaborate in improving quality, standardized packaging, and technological adoption to meet international market requirements.
He reaffirmed the State’s commitment to making Kwara a leading launch point for Nigerian exports.
The Manager of the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport, Mr. Suraju Aderibigbe, explained that the old terminal building will be upgraded into a modern cargo facility with advanced technology to safely handle a wide range of products.
According to him, the upgrade is expected to boost trade, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth across multiple sectors in Kwara State.
The event brought together stakeholders from the Nigerian Army, Police Force, Immigration Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, University of Ilorin, and other organisations, all demonstrating support for this transformative initiative.
Victoria Ibanga