The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Plateau State Government have “signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to upgrade Yakubu Gowon Airport, Heipang, into an international cargo airport.” The agreement, according to FAAN “aims to boost exports of agricultural produce and position Plateau State as a key player in global trade.”
The Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, signed on behalf of the Authority, while Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang represented the Plateau State Government.
Mrs. Kuku said: “One of the major challenges in our export sector is the aggregation and quality assurance of goods. Plateau State’s proactive steps, including the establishment of the Plateau Commodities and Marketing Agency, show readiness to overcome these barriers.”
Governor Mutfwang said: “The idea of upgrading this airport to support international cargo has been in development for years. With this partnership, we are finally seeing action.”
FAAN says the new cargo facility will “support the export of agricultural products and is expected to drive job creation, investment, and economic growth in Plateau and the surrounding regions.”
Mrs. Kuku also called on investors to explore opportunities in logistics, tourism, and infrastructure, stressing that FAAN is engaging development finance partners, including the African Development Bank (AfDB), to support the initiative.
“This partnership is a turning point not only for Plateau State but for Northern Nigeria. FAAN is proud to be part of this vision and will work closely with all stakeholders to ensure its success,” Kuku added.
The MoU marks a significant step in FAAN’s mission to use aviation as a tool for inclusive economic growth, bridging the gap between rural producers and global markets.