Aviation Minister Leads Nigerian Delegation To Sign MoU with DALIL UAE on Advanced Cargo Information (ACI) Solutions and Aviation Security
Nigeria has taken a bold step toward modernising its aviation and cargo sector with the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DALIL UAE, a globally recognised provider of aviation security and Advanced Cargo Information (ACI) solutions.
The agreement was sealed during a high-level mission to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, led by the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Olorogun Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON.
The Minister was accompanied by a strong delegation of top aviation CEOs, including the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Ona Najomo; the Managing Director/CEO of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku; FAAN Director of Cargo Development, Mr. Olalekan Thomas; FAAN Director of Aviation Security, ASP Albert A. Igbafe (Rtd.); and the Area Controller of Customs, Mr. Awe, representing the Nigerian Customs Service, alongside other senior officials from both Nigeria and the UAE.
The Nigerian delegation was hosted at Abu Dhabi International Airport and the UAE’s Command and Control Centre, where they were introduced to cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of global cargo management. DALIL UAE delivered technical briefings and live demonstrations of its ACI systems, which are designed to enhance real-time cargo data management, improve aviation security, and boost government revenue collection.
A key highlight of the tour was the demonstration of how early detection and risk profiling of high-risk cargo can significantly strengthen aviation security while ensuring seamless cargo clearance.
The MoU establishes a framework for deploying ACI systems across Nigeria’s airports, covering joint cooperation, technical support, and a phased implementation plan. The first stage will commence in October 2025 with feasibility studies, paving the way for a nationwide rollout by the third quarter of 2026.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister Keyamo emphasised the transformational potential of ACI solutions for Nigeria:
“The adoption of Advanced Cargo Information technology is crucial to the future of Nigeria’s aviation industry. This system will not only strengthen aviation security by identifying high-risk cargo before it enters our borders, but it will also enhance efficiency by reducing bottlenecks at cargo terminals, improve transparency, and ensure real-time revenue assurance. Beyond these, it will position Nigeria as a competitive regional logistics hub in line with ICAO and WCO global standards.”
This landmark partnership represents Nigeria’s most ambitious step yet in aviation digital transformation, making it the first country in West Africa to embark on large-scale adoption of ACI systems.
By leveraging DALIL UAE’s globally proven expertise, Nigeria is charting a new course toward building a secure, efficient, and globally competitive cargo ecosystem that will serve as a model for the African continent.
Tunde Moshood
Special Adviser On Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development
