The FAAN, in an X on Wednesday, described the agreement as a visionary step aimed at unlocking economic growth in the region.

“FAAN and the Plateau State Government have signed an MOU to develop and expand the Yakubu Gowon Airport to become a hub for agricultural produce and improve Nigeria’s economy through airline cargo,” the post reads.

“A visionary step towards unlocking economic growth in the region.”

Commenting on the development, Caleb Mutfwang, governor of Plateau, praised the initiative for its potential to boost revenue and position the state as a hub for agricultural exports.

He commended President Bola Tinubu for providing the policy environment that enabled the partnership, and also lauded Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace development, and Olubunmi Kuku, the managing director of FAAN, for their commitment to the agro-export vision.

The governor said the FAAN’s visit to Plateau in 2024 is already yielding results and would soon translate into increased revenue.

“Jos once thrived commercially before the market fire. We’re rebuilding to restore it as northern Nigeria’s trading powerhouse,” Mutfwang said.

The governor said the new commodities market in Plateau would serve as a central aggregation point for agricultural produce across the region.

According to the governor, the facility would complement the planned special agro-processing zone supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB).

Mutfwang also referenced the dry inland port initiative, adding that conversations with private investors were underway to actualise the project.

He assured the public and stakeholders that the MoU would be implemented, pledging to ensure security for all investors doing business in Plateau.

Also speaking, Kuku reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting the bold vision, calling it a gateway to investment, opportunity, and global impact.

“When N3.5 trillion worth of food perishes each year, while global markets seek our produce, it’s clear something urgent must change,” Kuku said.

“Today marks the beginning of that change, with the Plateau Governor’s visit to FAAN’s headquarters in Lagos signifying a major shift in agro-exports.”

The FAAN chief said the goal is to transform the airport into a premier food cargo terminal, strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural export infrastructure.

“This partnership is about more than infrastructure. It’s about creating opportunity, empowering farmers, and elevating Plateau’s produce to international markets,” the managing director said.

She described the project as a collaborative model that supports President Bola Tinubu’s vision of growing the economy to $1 trillion by 2030.

INVESTMENT IN STORAGE, TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE

Kuku urged investors to act promptly and take advantage of the opportunities created by the partnership.

“To stakeholders witnessing this milestone: the time is now. Plateau offers rich resources; FAAN brings expertise. Global markets await Nigerian produce,” she said.

“We invite you to invest in storage, packaging, and transport infrastructure that will connect our farmers with international buyers.

“Today’s signing is not just an agreement — it’s a declaration of economic empowerment for our farmers and a reimagining of regional development.”

The MD said FAAN is ready to do business, noting that Plateau is poised for growth, “and Nigeria’s agricultural potential is on the verge of taking off”.