LAGOS – The frequent rejection of Nigerian cargo in international markets is primarily due to the lack of goods integrity and exporters’ failure to adhere to best practices throughout the intermodal supply chain. This was the consensus at the fourth CHINET Aviacargo Conference held in Lagos, themed ‘e-Commerce and the Future of Air Cargo in Africa: The Building Blocks.’
Industry leaders in aviation, cargo business, and insurance expressed concerns over Nigeria’s unpreparedness to compete effectively in the global air cargo sector. Despite possessing raw materials, the country has allowed foreign companies to dominate air and water transport, thereby losing control of market dynamics.
Mrs. Nkechi Onyenso, Managing Director of Pathfinders International Limited, emphasized that ensuring cargo integrity requires more than just safe and timely delivery; it involves maintaining a transparent and honest supply chain. She identified poor packaging, inadequate documentation, lack of incident reporting, and insecure transportation as major issues hindering Nigerian cargo exports.
Onyenso highlighted the critical role of proper packaging in protecting goods from physical damage, contamination, theft, and tampering, while also facilitating compliance with international regulations. She stressed that maintaining thorough documentation and implementing secure transportation practices are essential for building trust and confidence in Nigeria’s logistics sector.
She also pointed out the importance of a clear policy framework, transparent procedures, high professionalism, and robust internal audits in guaranteeing cargo integrity. According to her, these measures are not just about compliance but are strategic imperatives to protect businesses from financial losses, reputational damage, and legal liabilities.
Additionally, Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, Commissioner for the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), dismissed claims that Nigerian insurance companies lack the capacity to cover aviation-related risks. He assured stakeholders that Nigerian insurers, supported by global re-insurance practices, are fully capable of underwriting all aspects of the aviation industry, including cargo and aircraft acquisition.
