CHUKS OKOH,
The Chairman of Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC, Dr Taiwo Afolabi CON, has emphasized the critical need for robust stakeholder collaboration, mutual trust, and shared responsibility to drive the growth, efficiency, and global competitiveness of Nigeria’s aviation cargo industry.
Speaking at the recent SAHCO PLC Cargo Stakeholders Forum held at Marriot Hotels in Ikeja, Dr Afolabi who was represented by the Managing Director of the Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin highlighted that the air cargo sector plays a vital role in facilitating international trade, connecting markets, and supporting broader economic development.
Dr Afolabi noted that SAHCO’s success is inextricably linked to the cooperation of every stakeholder within the value chain, from airlines and freight forwarders to regulatory agencies, cargo agents, importers, exporters, and other service providers.
To meet the evolving demands of the global economy, Afolabi shared that SAHCO has continuously invested in cutting-edge technology, modern equipment, and infrastructure.
Recent enhancements include the introduction of a new dual-view X-ray machine for advanced cargo screening, an exclusive Trace Detection (ETB) machine for identifying potential exclusive traces, a 16-ton forklift to handle heavy and oversized consignments, and specialized cold-chain handling capabilities designed for temperature-sensitive cargo like pharmaceuticals and perishables.
The Sifax boss said company has expanded its cargo build-up operational area to improve workflow efficiency, optimize space, and support growing cargo volumes stressing that infrastructure and equipment alone cannot guarantee excellence without a skilled workforce, strict adherence to safety protocols, and effective communication among all partners.
The event served as a platform for industry players to discuss operational bottlenecks, share feedback, and explore practical solutions aimed at reducing cargo turnaround times, strengthening security standards, and boosting trade facilitation.
SAHCO reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining an open-door policy, leveraging stakeholder feedback to continually refine its service delivery, and positioning Nigeria’s aviation sector as a trusted leader in global air cargo operations.
