SAHCO Wins Top Honour for Ground Handling Excellence at Nigeria International Airshow
The spotlight shone brightly on Skyway Aviation Handling Company PLC (SAHCO) as it was named the Best Ground Support Service Company of the Year during the inaugural Nigeria International Airshow, held at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. Organised by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, this recognition not only cements SAHCO’s leadership in the Nigerian aviation sector but also signals a new era of professionalism and innovation in ground handling services across West Africa.
Receiving the prestigious award on behalf of the company, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, lauded the achievement as a reflection of SAHCO’s unwavering commitment to supporting the growth and modernisation of Nigeria’s aviation industry. She emphasized that the accolade is a testament to the company’s focus on operational efficiency, deployment of advanced equipment, safety compliance, and professional service delivery at airports nationwide. For African travel professionals, this milestone highlights the rising standards and competitiveness within the region’s ground support sector—a critical backbone for seamless passenger and cargo operations.
The award was presented by Air Vice Marshal (Rtd.) Ojuawo Adeniyi, now serving in the House of Representatives, who commended SAHCO for its spirit of innovation and steadfast contributions to the country’s aviation development. Such endorsements from both industry and legislative leaders further underscore the strategic role that reliable and technologically advanced ground handling plays in the broader aviation ecosystem.
Dr. Taiwo Afolabi (CON), Chairman of SAHCO Plc, welcomed the honour, noting that it reinforces the company’s drive for excellence. He attributed the recognition to the hard work and professionalism of SAHCO’s workforce, whose dedication underpins the company’s world-class operational standards. For the African travel and aviation sector, SAHCO’s example demonstrates the tangible benefits of investing in people, processes, and technology to deliver globally competitive services.
SAHCO’s rise comes at a time when ground handling is increasingly viewed as a differentiator for airlines and airports seeking to attract new routes, boost efficiency, and assure passenger safety. The company’s consistent investment in modern equipment and adherence to international safety benchmarks have positioned it as a trusted partner for both domestic and international carriers operating in Nigeria. Its portfolio spans ramp handling, cargo services, passenger assistance, and executive lounge management—each aspect contributing to the seamless flow of travelers and goods that is vital to Africa’s tourism and trade ambitions.
Continuous capacity development lies at the heart of SAHCO’s operational philosophy. Dr. Afolabi reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to staff training and capacity building, ensuring that its teams remain abreast of evolving global practices and regulatory requirements. This proactive approach is not only essential for retaining the confidence of airline partners but also for supporting the expansion of Nigeria’s—and by extension, Africa’s—aviation sector as demand for air travel continues to grow.
The award’s timing is significant, coming as Nigeria and the wider sub-Saharan region experience renewed interest from foreign airlines, increased investment in airport infrastructure, and a gradual resurgence of passenger volumes post-pandemic. For travel industry stakeholders, the ability of ground handling companies like SAHCO to deliver efficient, safe, and reliable services is central to maintaining the attractiveness of African destinations in the eyes of global operators.
SAHCO’s recognition at the Nigeria International Airshow serves as inspiration for other ground handling and aviation support firms across the continent. As competition intensifies and regulatory scrutiny deepens, those companies that prioritise operational excellence, technological innovation, and staff empowerment will be best positioned to lead Africa’s aviation renaissance. The broader lesson for the continent’s travel professionals is clear: ground operations are not merely a supporting act but a strategic lever for enhancing the overall travel experience and unlocking new growth opportunities.
Looking ahead, SAHCO’s continued investments in technology, safety, and workforce development are set to raise the bar for ground handling standards across Africa. As air connectivity expands and passenger expectations rise, the company’s success story highlights how African service providers can achieve global recognition by remaining committed to quality, innovation, and customer-centricity. For travel professionals, aligning with such forward-thinking partners will be crucial in delivering superior journeys and sustaining the continent’s upward trajectory in aviation and tourism.
