CHUKS OKOH
Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO) reported a dramatic turnaround in its latest quarterly results, with revenue soaring to N31.7 billion – a 57 % increase from N20.1 billion a year earlier – and profit before tax leaping 82 % to N10 billion.
The figures, presented at a recent interactive session with members of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC), highlighted the company’s focus on operational excellence, technology and infrastructure.
The Managing Director, Adenike Aboderin told attendees, “We are working on the four Ps – people, processes, practice and best practices – to deliver service and operational excellence while embracing technology and infrastructural improvement.”
She added that despite headwinds such as rising overheads, inflation and foreign‑exchange pressures, SAHCO “continues to deliver value to stakeholders, shareholders, clients and airlines across more than 22 locations.”
The company’s growth strategy is anchored in digital transformation.
SAHCO has rolled out e‑billing, an in‑house flight app and a budget‑monitoring app, and has created a Resource Allocators Department to maximise the use of scarce equipment and personnel. Cybersecurity upgrades have also yielded a 27 % year‑on‑year cost saving.
Certifications remain a cornerstone of SAHCO’s reputation. The firm holds the most SACOR certifications among West African handlers and has renewed its IATA, RE3 cargo security, ISO QMS and ISO 14001 environmental management credentials.
A new training academy, set to partner with African nations, will also offer commercial aviation courses locally, reducing the need for overseas training.
Aboderin said expansion is underway on several fronts, noting that SAHCO now operates at 21–22 airports, including recent agreements with Bayelsa and Gateway airports, and serves over 25 domestic and international airlines.
The company, she says, is phasing out ageing ground‑support equipment in favour of electric and solar‑powered units, with ten charging points already installed at its Lagos facility and more planned.
In cargo, she said SAHCO has upgraded its cold‑room infrastructure and introduced real‑time tracking, positioning Lagos as a transit hub for temperature‑sensitive goods bound for the UK and beyond.
The firm is also launching an e‑commerce logistics platform to complement its existing services and is diversifying into helicopter services for the oil and gas sector through a new subsidiary.
Looking ahead, Aboderin said, “We are investing in our workforce, matching people with technology, and diversifying into new markets across Africa. With 57 % revenue growth, 82 % profit growth and a 31 % rise in total assets, the future looks bright for SAHCO and the wider aviation industry.”
The company’s ambitious roadmap, anchored in sustainable practices and strategic partnerships, aims to cement SAHCO’s position as the leading handling brand in West Africa and beyond.