Despite mounting challenges in the aviation industry, SAHCO, one of West Africa’s leading aviation handling companies, has posted remarkable financial results, driven by strategic investments in operational efficiency, workforce development, and technological innovation.
M/D SAHCO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin flanked by Chairman, LAAC, Mr. Suleman Idris, (left) and General Manager, Operations, SAHCO Mr. Emmanuel Okeowo at a briefing.
The company recently shared its latest financial performance, reporting revenue of $31.7 billion, a 58 percent increase compared to $20.1 billion in the previous year. Gross profit rose to $18 billion from $12 billion, while profit before tax surged 82 percent to $10 billion. Total assets increased by 31 percent, reaching $57.1 billion, reflecting SAHCO’s continued commitment to infrastructure development, fleet modernization, and technological advancement.
“Our focus has always been on operational excellence, service quality, and sustainable growth,” said the company’s management during a presentation. “Despite industry headwinds such as rising overhead costs, inflation, foreign exchange volatility, and high prices for imported equipment and spare parts, SAHCO continues to deliver value to shareholders, clients, and airline partners across more than 22 locations.”
The company has invested heavily in modernizing its operations. Digital innovations, including an e-billing system, in-house flight and budget apps, and cybersecurity measures, have streamlined processes, reduced operational costs by 27 percent, and improved efficiency across all its facilities. SAHCO also operates the highest number of GSE (ground support equipment) charging points in West Africa and is phasing in electric and environmentally sustainable fleets, complemented by solar-powered charging stations.
Recognizing that technology alone cannot drive success, SAHCO has invested significantly in its workforce. Staff undergo regular training programs covering regulatory compliance, cargo handling, customer service, and soft skills. Certifications such as ISO Quality Management, ISO Environmental Management, and cargo security authorizations are renewed and upgraded continuously. A larger aviation training school is under development, aiming to become a regional academy that will train personnel for both domestic and international operations, reducing dependency on overseas training.
Amid these advancements, SAHCO has issued an appeal to the Nigerian government for tax incentives on imported aviation equipment. Most critical machinery, spare parts, and technological tools are sourced internationally, creating high operational costs. Management emphasized that reducing import taxes would accelerate modernization, enhance efficiency, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitive positioning in the global aviation sector.
“Our industry is heavily dependent on imported equipment, from ground handling tools to cargo scanning machines,” the company explained. “Tax incentives on these imports will enable us to invest further in technology, improve operational efficiency, and maintain global best standards, ultimately benefiting the economy, our workforce, and airline partners.”
SAHCO has also expanded its operational footprint. The company recently signed handling contracts for Bayelsa Airport and other regional hubs, serving over 25 domestic and international airlines, including Air Tanzania, Air Algeria, Ethiopian Airlines, and Value Jet. Plans are underway to extend operations to additional African countries, leveraging SAHCO’s reputation for high standards and reliable service.
Infrastructure upgrades have been central to SAHCO’s strategy. Cold chain facilities have been improved to handle temperature-sensitive cargo, catering to global logistics demands. New scanning machines, ETT and X-Train equipment, and enhanced drop-off lanes at cargo terminals have been installed to meet international security standards and streamline export and import processes. These measures have positioned the company as a transit hub for regional and global cargo flows.
In line with diversification goals, SAHCO has launched SIPA SACOL Aviation, a subsidiary offering helicopter services for the oil and gas sector. E-commerce logistics initiatives are also being developed, with plans to operate distribution centers modeled on international standards, complementing existing handling operations.
Environmental sustainability is a key focus. SAHCO has implemented ISO 14001-based Environmental Management Systems (EMS) and invested in solar-powered charging infrastructure for electric ground vehicles, aligning operational practices with global environmental standards.
Looking forward, SAHCO plans to continue its expansion across Africa, with new airport handling contracts, enhanced cargo capabilities, and advanced training programs. Leadership emphasized that people, technology, and infrastructure must evolve together to maintain service excellence and operational efficiency.
“With strong partnerships, strategic investments, and a skilled workforce, SAHCO is not just growing; we are shaping the future of aviation handling in West Africa,” the company said. “However, government support, particularly through tax incentives for imported equipment, is critical to sustaining this growth and ensuring Nigeria remains competitive in global aviation.”
The company’s achievements demonstrate that operational resilience, technological innovation, and workforce development can drive remarkable growth, even in the face of industry headwinds. With an ambitious expansion strategy and policy support, SAHCO is poised to solidify its leadership in West Africa and beyond.
