Mrs Chinwe Ezenwa, President of African Women in Processing, Nigeria, said the partnership between Rwanda Air and the Federal Government will lower logistics costs and improve export efficiency.
Ezenwa made this statement during an interview with NAN at the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) WKND2026 in Lagos on Saturday.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the two countries signed a Roadmap for the Nigeria East/Southern African Air Cargo Corridor with the Rwandan government at CANEX WKND2026.
She explained that the partnership will promote trade, strengthen export capacity, provide stability for Nigerian exporters, and address logistical challenges.
She noted that the association, with over 1,000 members, had previously informed the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, of these challenges.
According to her, the association’s concerns prompted the minister to pursue an airline partnership to reduce transportation costs for exporters.
Ezenwa, also Chief Executive Officer of Le Look House of Bags/Shoes, said the partnership has begun, giving Nigerian exporters more affordable logistics and greater operational efficiency.
She described the arrangement as a significant advancement for exporters, especially women entrepreneurs aiming to grow their business. She noted that members of her organisation are among the first exporters to benefit from the partnership.
The association president also stated that her business is currently Rwanda’s largest customer under the arrangement.
She added that the initiative will create opportunities for other businesses and entrepreneurs interested in Nigeria’s export industry.
“Reducing logistics costs and improving efficiency will make exporting more accessible for emerging entrepreneurs.”
She specifically emphasized the importance of obtaining a Certificate of Origin, which is necessary to facilitate exports.
“Exporters without the necessary certification may not be able to access the benefits offered by the partnership.”
“Obtaining a Certificate of Origin has been simplified, making it easier for more businesses to participate in export activities,” she said.
Ezenwa expressed confidence in the partnership’s implementation and noted that operations have already begun.
She advised prospective exporters to comply with established export procedures to benefit from the arrangement.
She welcomed the minister’s announcement of a three-year initial implementation period, saying it will give exporters the stability needed to plan and sustain their businesses.
The president stated that CANEX aims to connect people across borders and promote cultural exchange.
She added that the event brings together key players from the Creative and Cultural Industries (CCI) to showcase their work, share ideas, build networks, and collaborate.
