NIGERIA Federal Airports Authority managing director Richard Aisuebeogun said the country's failure to go digital in airfreight was dragging down other developments in the field.
Before gains could be made in infrastructure upgrades, he said, the first step was going digital and removing the heavy paper burden that drags down the air cargo industry in Nigeria, reported the Lagos Daily Champion newspaper.
The average shipment, he said, generated more than 30 documents that are used by shippers, forwarders, handling agents, export and import brokers, airlines, customs and other government authorities, he said.
Speaking to the recent Annual Cargo Conference, organised by Aviation Review Magazine, Mr Aisuebeogun said Nigeria's air cargo industry has many needs to be met before it can fully maximise potential.
Mr Aisuebeogun also said he recognised the need for better infrastructure including the terminals, modern warehousing with reefer space for perishables and greater apron space for parking, which is lacking Lagos Murtala Muhammed Airport. He also called for trained cargo handlers and a level of professionalism through collection of reliable data based on cargo throughput for planning purposes.
He also said the industry should move swiftly to adhere to the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) drive to simplify with the introduction of its "Cargo 2000" quality management system.
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