Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, the managing director/CEO, SAHCO, on behalf of Dr Taiwo Afolabi, the SAHCO chairman, reiterated on strengthening bilateral trade, enhancing passenger and cargo handling, trade facilitation, e-commerce partnerships with other collaborations and leveraging aviation as a catalyst for economic growth.

Mrs Aboderin, assured that SAHCO was committed to supporting initiatives that promote seamless passenger movement, cargo movement and trade between Nigeria and the UAE.

According to her, SAHCO possesses the operational capacity, infrastructure and expertise required to facilitate increased Passenger, cargo volumes and support the growing demand for e-commerce logistics across the region.

She said:

“We (SAHCO) are strategically positioned to support trade facilitation between Nigeria and the UAE through efficient Passenger Handling, Baggage Handling, Cargo handling services, modern infrastructure and a strong commitment to operational excellence. We are open to collaborations that will strengthen connectivity and create value for businesses in both countries.

Furthermore she emphasized that SAHCO is open to opportunities for collaboration with UAE Airlines emphasizing that stronger partnerships between aviation stakeholders in Nigeria and the UAE would contribute significantly to expanding trade volumes, improving supply chain efficiency and supporting economic diversification efforts.

Also, the UAE delegation, led by the Head of Mission to Nigeria, His Excellency Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi, expressed interest in understanding SAHCO’s operational capabilities and exploring avenues for stronger cooperation in Passenger, Baggage, Cargo and trade facilitation.

He also promised that the UAE Embassy in Nigeria would serve as a bridge for building deeper commercial relationships between businesses in both countries.

SAHCO is a Publicly Listed Aviation Ground Handling Service provider that is present in all the commercially operated Airports in Nigeria and is involved in activities that includes Passenger Handling, Ramp Handling, Cargo Handling and Warehousing, Aviation Security, Premium Lounge services amongst other aviation related services.

The historic commissioning marks a significant milestone in the development of aviation infrastructure in Nigeria, positioning Ogun State as a strategic hub for passenger and cargo operations.

SAHCO’s appointment as the exclusive ground handler underscores its reputation for operational excellence, safety standards, and world-class service delivery.

Speaking on the development, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, the chairman of SAHCO, expressed pride in the Company’s role in supporting the successful launch of the airport.

He noted that the opportunity to serve as the sole ground handling partner reflects the trust placed in SAHCO’s capabilities and its consistent track record in delivering efficient and reliable aviation services across the country.

“This milestone further reinforces SAHCO’s commitment to supporting the growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector through continuous investment in modern equipment, skilled personnel, and innovative service solutions. Being selected as the sole ground handler at such a landmark event highlights our readiness to deliver seamless operations at new and existing airports nationwide,” he stated.

Barr. Dr Afolabi also went on to emphasize that with partnership with Allied Air, a Nigerian owned Cargo Airline of repute, SAHCO is poised to provide efficient cargo operations to boost seamless cargo processing, particularly for time-sensitive and high value goods at the modern warehouse complex for both Import and Export.

This is expected to significantly drive capacity, especially for agriculture, manufacturing and e-commerce.

SAHCO played a critical role during the commissioning, providing comprehensive ground handling services including ramp handling, passenger facilitation, cargo handling and operational support, ensuring a smooth and successful event.

The commissioning of the Ogun State Airport is expected to boost regional connectivity, stimulate economic activities, and open new opportunities for trade and investment. With SAHCO as the exclusive ground handling partner, the airport is well-positioned to deliver efficient and high-quality aviation services from inception.

As the aviation industry continues to expand, SAHCO remains committed to driving operational excellence and contributing meaningfully to the development of Nigeria’s air transport ecosystem.

The retreat provided a platform for reflection, alignment, and forward-looking dialogue as the Company continues to strengthen its leadership culture and long-term sustainability agenda.

Over the course of the sessions, participants examined emerging business realities, ethical leadership standards, performance excellence, and strategies for sustainable growth.

The event anchored by Emmarach Limited, Learning and Development Network International (LDNI) in collaboration with SAHCO’s Training Department featured seasoned facilitators  and industry experts who led interactive sessions on Creating a Performance-Driven Culture with 360-Degree Leadership; Work–Life Integration and Balance; Ethical Standards and Performance in the Workplace; Leveraging Technology as a Catalyst for Operational Excellence; and Economic Trends and Outlook with Reform Drivers. These sessions encouraged open dialogue and practical problem-solving, equipping leaders with the tools required to navigate an increasingly complex business environment.

A major highlight of the retreat was the series of presentations by the Executive Directors and Regional Managers, who shared insights into market trends, operational achievements, challenges, and growth opportunities across their respective regions.

Their presentations fostered cross-functional learning and reinforced the Company’s commitment to data-driven decision-making and collaborative leadership.

Speaking at the retreat, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, the chairman of SAHCO, represented by Mrs. Wunmi Eniola-Jegede, the SIFAX Group coordinating director, expressed his pride in the remarkable strides made by the Board, Management, and staff of SAHCO in consistently projecting the Company in the best possible light.

He noted that the importance of aligning operational excellence with strong ethical values and sustainability cannot be overemphasized, as these principles have been fundamental to the organization’s success.

According to him,

“This retreat is not only about strategy; it is also about shaping the leaders who will carry our vision forward and ensure that SAHCO continues to thrive with integrity, responsibility, and long-term impact.”

In her opening address, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, the managing director/CEO, commended the Management Team for their leadership, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment.

She noted that these qualities have significantly shaped the Company’s performance and sustained SAHCO’s reputation within a challenging and dynamic operating environment.

Mrs. Aboderin emphasized that the organization has recorded significant milestones because of disciplined leadership, strong corporate governance, and robust operational processes. She cautioned, however, that these achievements should not lead to complacency, but rather serve as motivation to raise the bar even higher by ensuring that investments are translated into capability, accountability, and measurable results.

Furthermore, she stressed that the Company’s strategic leadership focus must be anchored on operational excellence, revenue growth, business expansion, and long-term sustainability.

According to her, these objectives can only be achieved by leading differently, thinking boldly, and acting decisively to consistently exceed customer expectations and reinforce Nigeria’s position as a formidable force in the global aviation industry.

At the retreat, outstanding performance across the Company’s stations and teams was formally recognized.

Asaba Station emerged as the Most Profitable Station, while the Lagos Domestic Station received the award for Overall Operations Performance.

The Reliability Excellence Award was presented to the Port Harcourt Station in recognition of its consistency and dependability in delivery service.

The Safety and Quality Award was won by the Benin Station, while the Reporting and Transparency Award went to the Abuja Station for its exemplary standards in accountability and corporate reporting.

In addition, individual excellence was celebrated with the Digital Champions of 2025 Awards, presented to Ifeyinwa Emone (Abuja Station) and Ebere-Wali Kenneth (Calabar Station) for their outstanding adoption of digital innovation and transformation within the organization.

With this, the company affirmed its long-standing tradition of promoting teamwork for excellent service delivery and keeping an eye on outstanding employees who are the future of SAHCO.

Participants described the retreat as highly engaging, insightful, and impactful, noting that it strengthened unity of purpose and renewed commitment to the Company’s strategic direction.

The Management Retreat concluded with actionable resolutions focused on performance improvement, ethical governance, innovation, and sustainable business practices across all regions of operation.

SAHCO is a leading Aviation Ground Handling organization in Ramp Handling, Baggage Handling, Passenger Handling, Cargo Handling, Aviation Security, Premium Lounge services and other aviation related services.

In a New Year message issued on behalf of the chairman, board of directors, and executive management, the company expressed appreciation to its customers for their continued patronage and trust throughout 2025, noting that customer partnership remains central to SAHCO’s existence and long-term success.

In the statement by Adetola Vanessa Uansohia (Mrs), head, Coporate Communications at SAHCO, the management stated that the company would continue to listen closely to customers, deliver excellent service, and consistently exceed expectations in the years ahead.

SAHCO also acknowledged the support of stakeholders and partner governmental agencies, stating that their collaboration played a critical role in enabling the company to serve customers more effectively and achieve shared objectives.

Commenting on internal achievements, the company praised the dedication and professionalism of its staff nationwide, attributing key operational milestones in 2025 to their teamwork and commitment.

“These milestones included the successful renewal of the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) certifications”, the statement reads.

SAHCO further confirmed that its Regulated Agent (RA3) certification remains valid until 2027, while its Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON) and Quality Management System (QMS) certifications were renewed in 2025.

The company disclosed that its Training School Authorization was also renewed and that plans are underway to expand the school and enhance curriculum offerings in 2026 in line with global best practices.

SAHCO announced that several new airline customers were onboarded in 2025, including Ethiopian Airlines, Air Tanzania, Air Algérie as well as ValueJet Airlines and United Nigeria Airlines’ regional routes alongside their existing domestic routes, in addition to Pioneer Airlines, Binani Airlines, ExeJet/Enugu Air, and Air Peace on its Antigua and Barbados operations.

The company further revealed that its performance in 2025 earned it multiple industry recognitions, including the FAAN Safety Excellence Award, the Aircraft Handling Service Achievement Award from NIGAV, Aviation Service Provider of the Year from the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology, Best Ground Support Service Company of the Year at the Nigeria International Air Show, and GSE Certification of Recognition from IATA. In addition, British Airways recognized SAHCO’s Abuja Station with a Bronze Award and its Lagos Station with a Gold Award for Punctuality and Safety across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific regions.

In line with its sustainability agenda, SAHCO stated that it commenced the phased replacement of ageing equipment with eco-friendly alternatives in 2025 and would continue the initiative in 2026 while maintaining full environmental and sustainability compliance across its facilities.

Looking ahead, SAHCO disclosed that its 2026 strategy will focus on operational excellence, revenue growth, and business expansion. Key initiatives include expanding cargo offerings, strengthening partnerships with state airports, pursuing new certifications, deepening engagement with local, regional, and international airline partners, and enhancing customer engagement strategies and diversifications into new business lines across the Aviation value chain.

The company explained that these priorities are anchored on its “4Ps Strategy” for 2026—People, Process, Performance, and Platform. According to management, the strategy is designed to build a highly skilled, safety-driven workforce, standardize and enforce operating procedures, leverage data-driven analytics to improve performance and revenue, and develop an integrated digital and operational platform that connects people, processes, equipment, and data.

The company reaffirmed that as it steps into 2026, it remains focused on reimagining excellence with ethics at the core, innovation in action, and adaptation for sustainable success.

SAHCO is providing comprehensive ground handling services, which includes Passenger Handling, Baggage Handling, Ramp Handling, Cargo Handling & Warehousing and other aviation related services to Air Tanzania that would be flying from its hub at Julius Nyerere International Airport, Dar es Salaam, three times a week to Lagos.

Air Tanzania, which is the national flag carrier of the United Republic of Tanzania was established in 2002, with the aims to enhance Tanzania’s economic development and global connectivity.

Speaking on the development, the Managing Director/CEO of SAHCO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, stated; “We are thrilled to welcome Air Tanzania to Lagos and are honored they have chosen SAHCO Plc as their trusted ground handling partner. This contract is a testament to our team’s expertise, state-of-the-art equipment, and unwavering dedication to operational excellence and safety. We are fully prepared to support Air Tanzania’s new service, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for their passengers and cargo.”

SAHCO is the only Ground Handling Company in Nigeria that is in all the commercially operated Airports in the country. This feat and quality of service has enabled SAHCO to attract and retain confidence in both existing and new airlines due to the seamless, safe and speedy service delivery which SAHCO is known for.  

In recent times, many foreign airlines have moved their aviation ground handling operations to SAHCO to enjoy being handled by dependable and devoted workforce who are well trained and whose integrity is unmatched, undoubtable, delivering their activities in line with global best practices. 

Also, SAHCO has invested on modern aviation ground support equipment (GSE) which operates on alternative power sources and are rugged to enable effective maneuvering in the Nigerian terrain. These GSE are also equipped with the technology to guarantee zero carbon emission to ensure the commitment of SAHCO to protecting the environment.  

In recognition of its high standards, SAHCO recently secured an additional ground handling contract with Ethiopian Airlines, the national flag carrier of Ethiopia. Ethiopian Airlines operates daily flights from Addis Ababa International Airport to Lagos, Nigeria, and now benefits from SAHCO’s world-class handling services.

Since aviation is all about safety, SAHCO has ensured that the organization is RA3 certified, ISAGO certified, ISO  9001 and ISO 27001 certified. It is worthy to note that SAHCO is also the recipient of numerous awards both locally and internationally due to its quality service delivery in aviation ground handling operations in Nigeria. 

The commissioning, led by Controller M.T. Awe, marks a strategic investment in technology designed to speed up cargo clearance, enhance transparency, and secure the nation’s supply chain.

Speaking at the event, Controller Awe noted that the deployment of the X-ray machine reflects Customs’ commitment to simplifying processes, promoting legitimate trade, and safeguarding national security.

“This facility is not just about technology, it is about efficiency, transparency, and building confidence in Nigeria’s cargo handling system,” he said.

The state-of-the-art equipment is expected to cut processing time, boost operational efficiency, and inspire greater trust among traders and stakeholders in the aviation cargo sector.

SAHCO, known for its ultra-modern ground support equipment and cutting-edge technology, continues to provide seamless solutions for both import and export processes.

With facilities operating across Nigeria’s commercial airports, the company plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth and secure movement of goods in line with global best practices.

The company recorded a revenue of ₦21.063 billion, representing a 74% increase compared to ₦12.11 billion posted in the same period in 2024.

This substantial growth was supported by an increased demand for aviation handling services, strategic partnerships, and operational expansion both locally and regionally.

In addition, workforce development, infrastructure upgrades, compliance with enhanced industry regulations operational efficiency and revenue optimization translated into an exceptional increase in bottom-line performance, with profit after tax surging by 155.4%, underscoring the company’s resilience and strategic focus.

Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, chairman of SAHCO Plc, commented:

“This outstanding performance reflects the dedication of our team, the loyalty of our clients, and our strategic focus on sustainable growth. As the aviation sector continues to rebound, SAHCO is well-positioned to build on this momentum and deliver even greater value to shareholders and stakeholders.”

The company reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining service excellence, investing in technological innovation, and expanding its footprint to solidify its leadership in the ground handling and logistics sector.

Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc is a leading provider of aviation ground handling in Nigeria with presence in all the commercially operated airports in Nigeria.

SAHCO offers Passenger, Ramp, Cargo, Warehousing, Aviation, Premium Lounge services to both domestic and international airlines, ensuring safety, efficiency, and service quality across the aviation value chain.

Vanessa Uansohia (Mrs), head of Corporate Communications at SAHCO, said that this makes the company the first and only ground handling firm in Nigeria to integrate this advanced system.

The state-of-the-art machine will significantly boost SAHCO’s cargo screening capabilities, ensuring precise detection of explosives and narcotics—meeting crucial safety standards for both importing and exporting cargo to the United States and other Western countries.

“The Itemiser 5X is widely recognized and recommended by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for its superior security screening capabilities.

By integrating this advanced technology, SAHCO strengthens its position as a leader in aviation ground handling and security compliance. This investment underscores SAHCO’s unwavering commitment to ensuring safe, efficient, and internationally compliant cargo operations.

“Furthermore, the Itemiser 5X represents a major advancement in security screening, featuring an optimized detection library that can identify a wide range of explosives and narcotics. Its advanced software algorithm enhances accuracy and efficiency, making it a crucial addition to SAHCO’s security infrastructure. To further strengthen security measures, SAHCO has strategically deployed three units of the Itemiser 5X across its major operational hubs, reinforcing its commitment to global security standards.

“Designed for superior performance, the Itemiser 5X incorporates a fast clear-down mechanism that efficiently removes residual explosive traces after detection, ensuring seamless operations.

“Its innovative desorber design and sample wand improve sample collection accuracy, while remote monitoring capabilities allow real-time system oversight through a dedicated console”, she said.

Engineered for ease of use, the machine is lightweight, portable, and equipped with a built-in handle for convenient transport.

Its advanced features include stable humidity control, a high-capacity hard drive for reliable performance, and an automated internal calibration system that reduces consumable usage while maximizing detection accuracy.

Additionally, the non-radioactive ionization source eliminates the need for annual wipe tests and special licensing, simplifying compliance requirements.

With this contract, SAHCO will provide ground handling service to the airline flying from Milan Malpensa Airport in Italy to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos once a week.

SAHCO will be providing full ground handling services for NeosAir which include Ramp handling, Passenger handling, Baggage handling, Cargo handling, Aircraft cleaning, and more.

SAHCO’s experienced team and state-of-the-art equipment are fully prepared to meet the unique needs of NeosAir’s operations, ensuring seamless and efficient turnarounds at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nigeria.

“We are thrilled to partner with NeosAir on this important venture,” said Dr Taiwo Afolabi, chairman, SAHCO. “This patronage reflects the trust and confidence that NeosAir has in our capabilities. We are committed to delivering the highest quality of service to support their operations, ensuring safe, timely, and efficient ground handling for their flights.”

He went on to emphasize that SAHCO is ISAGO and RA3 certified which means that SAHCO has the certification to handle all Europe bound cargo and can accept shipments from Europe as well.

Furthermore, SAHCO has a proven track record of providing top-tier ground handling services to major airlines operating in Nigeria. The company is known for its dedication to safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. With the addition of NeosAir to its growing list of clients, SAHCO continues to strengthen its position as a leading ground handling service provider in the region.

NeosAir is a private Italian airline whose headquarters is in Somma Lombardo, Lombardy, Italy and is a subsidiary of Alpitour S.p.A. In addition, NeosAir operates from its main operating base at Milan Malpensa Airport in Italy to Africa, Europe, Asia and North America.

The British Airways Punctuality Award was introduced as part of the airline’s efforts to recognize and celebrate its partners who consistently deliver excellent job performance.

SAHCO PLC stood out among its peers for its outstanding punctuality and dedication to ensuring smooth operations for British Airways.

According to Hellen O’Connor, British Airways Regional General Manager for the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific, expressed her congratulations to SAHCO at Lagos for achieving their punctuality targets for the first quarter of 2024.

She highlighted the importance of safety and punctuality in the aviation industry and commended SAHCO for meeting the Adjusted Closure (aDC) target of 96% each month during the quarter.

In response to the award, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, the managing director/CEO of SAHCO PLC, expressed her elation and gratitude to British Airways for recognizing SAHCO’s commitment to excellence. She emphasized that SAHCO is dedicated to providing top-notch Ground Handling Services to its numerous partners, utilizing state-of-the-art Ground Handling Equipment fitted with the latest environmentally friendly technology.

Furthermore, she reaffirmed SAHCO’s commitment to continue delivering the best Ground Handling services to all SAHCO’S clients and went on to extend her gratitude to British Airways Nigerian team led by Mrs. Toun Odejinmi and the SAHCO team for their professionalism, hard work and dedication.

The British Airways Punctuality Award is a testament to SAHCO PLC’s commitment to professionalism, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

This recognition reinforces SAHCO’s position as a leading Ground Handling service provider in the aviation industry.

Skyway Aviation Handling Company, SAHCO PLC, is a leading Ground Handling service provider in Nigeria.

With a team of highly skilled professionals and state-of-the-art equipment, SAHCO offers a comprehensive range of Ground Handling services, including passenger handling, ramp handling, cargo handling, aviation security amongst other Ground handling services to clients across all the commercially operated airports in Nigeria.

SAHCO Plc is a publicly quoted company on the Nigerian Stock Exchange that was incorporated as an Aviation Ground Handling services provider under the Nigerian Company & Allied Matters Act of 1990.