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.
Dr. Afolabi who was represented by the Managing Director, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, made the plea at the company’s recent Cargo Stakeholders Forum held at Marriot Hotels in Ikeja, highlighting that the air cargo sector plays a vital role in facilitating international trade, connecting markets, and supporting broader economic development.
He 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.
In order to meet the evolving demands of the global economy, Dr. Afolabi remarked that SAHCO has continuously invested in cutting-edge technology, modern equipment, and infrastructure. These include the introduction of a new dual-view X-ray machine for advanced cargo screening, an Explosive Trace Detection (ETB) machine to strengthen capacity to detect potential explosive traces and reinforce security within cargo handling operations, 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.
Furthermore, he revealed that the 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.
“We recognize that infrastructure and equipment alone cannot guarantee excellence. They must be complemented by a skilled workforce, strict adherence to safety and security procedures, effective communication, and strong collaboration among all stakeholders. Our ultimate objective is to ensure that these improvements translate into better service experiences, greater operational efficiency, and increased confidence in SAHCO as a trusted cargo handling partner,” Dr. Afolabi stressed.
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.
