In the span of two decades, Finchglow Holdings has transformed from a single travel agency in Lagos to a comprehensive travel conglomerate. With six subsidiaries under its umbrella, including Finchglow Travel, Travelden, FCM, Finchglow Holidays, Finch Global, and Lagos Aviation Academy, the company has positioned itself for further growth.
During an interactive session, Mr. Bankole Bernard, the Group Managing Director of Finchglow Holdings, exuded optimism regarding the unfolding opportunities within the sector as the company strategically positions itself.
Highlighting the meteoric rise of all subsidiaries as market leaders in their respective domains, Bernard underscored their global operational prowess and unwavering commitment to excellence.
“Our vision is to assert our dominance in the aviation industry, serving as a pivotal force shaping its landscape. We strive to contribute value across every facet of aviation, enriching the industry in myriad ways,” remarked Bernard.
Investing in Manpower Development
Moreover, Bernard stressed the importance of investing in manpower development within the aviation landscape. Citing the establishment of Lagos Business School in 2016 as a testament to this commitment, he emphasised nurturing talent and driving industry progress.
As Chairman of the Association of African Training Organisation of Nigeria (AATON), Bernard advocates for a concerted focus on personnel development. He urged the recognition and patronage of Approved Aviation Training Organizations.
In envisioning the aviation sector, Bernard elucidated, one must transcend the narrow lens fixated solely on pilots. “Once you mention the aviation industry the thing that comes to mind is pilots, as if pilots are the only ones surviving that industry. They have not been thoroughly educated on other professions within the aviation industry.”
“We have students working in different airlines, which means, by establishing the school, we have added value to the industry. Not only to the airlines, even other travel agencies across the country. “
Bolaji Durojaiye, Head of School at Lagos Aviation Academy, reinforced the institution’s achievements, having graduated over 2,400 students and clinched the prestigious IATA Best Performer accolade multiple times.
Comprehensive Travel Management
Adejoju Sikuade, Head of Business for FCM Travel under Finchlow Holdings, reaffirmed the company’s unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled services. This is a service done for corporates and multinationals.
She described FCM as a global travel management company that provides a wide array of travel services using tools and technology tailored to the needs of its corporate clients, majorly multinationals.
With a global presence in over 100 countries, FCM offers various services including corporate travel policy advisory, meetings, and events. They also manage group bookings, charters, and VIP executive service.
“Leisure travel service, door to door transfers, airport meet & greet, assistance with visas, passports and travel insurance are also part of the deal.”
“The idea is to have our clients feel at home in whichever FCM Travel Solutions Office they find themselves in. We pride ourselves on being a one stop shop for all travel solutions regardless of the country. Our clients must have the same exceptional services across the globe.” Sikuade said.
Bernard addressed Nigeria’s untapped cargo services potential, outlining Finchglow Holdings’ proactive approach driven by a zeal to revolutionize the sector.
Contributions of Other Subsidiaries
Adenekan Babatunde, Head of Business for Finchglow Global, expressed optimism about cargo services’ growing prospects when executed with precision and foresight.
Key figures from other subsidiaries elucidated their distinctive contributions to Finchglow Holdings’ overarching vision.
Ezekiel Ikotun, Managing Director of Finchglow Travels, said 16 years of propelling the businesses to greater heights has been no mean feat. He said Finchglow Travels is Nigeria’s one-stop travel solutions agency.
He said,” We provide excellent travel services to both businesses and individuals. Our experienced team uses the latest technology for ticket bookings, travel assistance, visa services, vacation packages, hotel reservations, and more.
He mentioned that Finchglow Travels also works with a growing number of independent travel agents. These agents get access to great deals, support with issuing tickets, and the chance to earn higher commissions.
Crafting Unforgettable Experiences with Finchglow Holidays
Achimba Juayibim-Enakele, Head of Business for Finchglow Holidays, outlined strategies to ensure people take time to relax and enjoy. Whether it is adventure, fashion, and culinary experience. According to her, if aviation were a party, then Finchglow Holidays is the life of that party. And as a destination management company, it creates experiences.
“We are excited about selling Nigeria, so we put together activities that highlight special areas starting with Lagos. We have activities like the Italawa, the Eko City Tour in Lagos.
“At Finchglow Holidays we appeal to people’s emotions and give you reasons to enjoy. You shouldn’t only travel for business; you should travel for leisure. Finchglow holidays have partners and suppliers, with ability to provide experiences from Nigeria to any part of the world.
We are able to provide packages for you. Our services run from Visas; I even have to talk about our visa we have a 97% success rate. I say 97% because we are not the consular, but we are able to guide applicants on the right things to do to make the application successful.
Travel for All
Revealing TravelDen’s business focus, Head of Operations, Temidayo Isabemueh, emphasizes its dedication to managing a diverse clientele through a robust online platform.
Isabemueh asserts that travel transcends luxury, emphasizing its accessibility to all, merely a click away, as long as the thirst for adventure exists.
This do-it-yourself platform leverages cutting-edge technology to propel clients towards their travel goals at competitive rates.
Isabemueh highlights TravelDen’s commitment to making travel accessible to the young at heart, the tech-savvy, and all who harbor a wanderlust spirit. TravelDen offers a comprehensive suite of services, including flights, visa assistance, hotel bookings, travel insurance, airport transfers, and holiday packages.
In Isabemueh’s words, “Our goal is to make travel seamless and accessible to everyone, ensuring memorable experiences for our clients every step of the way.”
Bernard outlined Finchglow Holdings’ ambitious path, emphasizing professionalism as key to shared prosperity in the aviation industry. “Elevating professionalism to unprecedented heights is the lodestar guiding our journey towards unlocking the industry’s full potential.” Concluded Bernard, his words resonating with visionary resolve.
