SAHCO Calls For Stronger Stakeholder Collaboration To Boost Air Cargo Sector
The Chairman of Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, has stressed the need for stronger stakeholder collaboration, mutual trust and shared responsibility to improve the growth, efficiency and global competitiveness of Nigeria’s air cargo industry.
Afolabi made the call at the SAHCO Plc Cargo Stakeholders Forum held recently in Ikeja, Lagos, where he highlighted the strategic importance of air cargo operations to international trade, market connectivity and national economic development.
Represented by the Managing Director of SAHCO Plc, Mrs Adenike Aboderin, the chairman noted that the performance of the air cargo sector depended largely on effective cooperation among stakeholders across the industry’s value chain.
He identified airlines, freight forwarders, regulatory agencies, cargo agents, importers, exporters and other service providers as critical partners whose collective efforts were necessary to strengthen cargo operations and improve service delivery.
According to him, the increasing demands of the global economy require efficient, reliable and secure cargo-handling systems capable of supporting businesses and facilitating international commerce.
“The air cargo sector plays a vital role in facilitating international trade, connecting markets, supporting businesses, and contributing to economic development. In today’s interconnected global economy, the speed, reliability, security, and efficiency of cargo operations are critical to the competitiveness of businesses and the growth of our nation,” Afolabi said.
He explained that SAHCO had continued to invest in modern technology, equipment and infrastructure to meet changing industry requirements and improve its cargo-handling capabilities.
Among the recent upgrades are a new dual-view X-ray machine for advanced cargo screening, an ETB trace-detection machine for identifying potential traces of prohibited substances, and a 16-tonne forklift designed to handle heavy and oversized consignments.
The company has also strengthened its cold-chain handling capabilities to accommodate temperature-sensitive goods, including pharmaceutical products and perishable commodities.
These investments, Afolabi noted, reflect SAHCO’s commitment to improving operational efficiency, strengthening cargo security and providing services that meet international standards.
He reiterated that sustained collaboration among industry players remained essential to maximising the benefits of these investments and positioning Nigeria’s air cargo sector for greater competitiveness in the global market.
The forum provided an opportunity for stakeholders to engage on industry priorities and explore ways to strengthen cooperation across the cargo value chain.
SAHCO’s call comes amid growing recognition of the importance of efficient air cargo services in facilitating trade, supporting supply chains and expanding opportunities for Nigerian businesses in international markets.
