‘Cargo terminals, aerotropolis future of Nigerian aviation’

Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah, has said that the perishable cargo and aerotropolis initiatives hold the key to the development of the country’s aviation sector.
While inspecting the remodeled Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, the minister said the perishable cargo terminal at the airport would provide a platform for farmers in the state and the neighbouring communities to live a good life beyond mere survival or existence.
“Cross River state is known for her agricultural produce ranging from pineapples, bananas, plantain, cocoa, yam, cassava, etc. Today, much of what the farmers produce here is either grossly under-priced or rots away as a result of lack of local capacity to absorb the huge harvest. But with the perishable cargo taking off here in a matter of months, farmers will begin to secure real value for their hard work as their farm produce will find their way to the biggest cities and supermarkets not only in Nigeria but also in Europe and America.
“The value chain that will result from this is also very immense. Just imagine the industries that will spring up to service this terminal like the packaging companies, transportation hubs, as well as the grocery stores that will feed off this facility. Thousands of jobs will be created and the entire landscape of this wonderful city will be greatly enhanced; the possibilities are indeed endless,” she said.
In his response, chairman of the board of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Senator Bassey Ewa-Henshawhailed the on-going reconstruction and remodeling of the nation’s airports, and expressed joy that the Calabar Airport benefitted from the transformation programme.
He commended the federal government for supporting the ministry of aviation to carry out reforms in the aviation sector.The former law-maker said air travellers passing through the new terminalwould appreciate it.