Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC has hosted a major engagement to strengthen cargo industry collaboration and align strategic objectives. The event, held at SAHCO’s corporate premises, served as a platform to enhance unity, build trust, and address common challenges affecting the cargo and logistics value chain.
The high-level meeting drew participation from stakeholders across Nigeria’s cargo and freight spectrum. Attendees included licensed customs agents, exporters, freight forwarders, and logistics professionals from both private and public sectors. Conversations revolved around reform, partnership, compliance, and innovations to reposition Nigeria’s cargo industry for global competitiveness.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SAHCO, Director Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, was represented by the Executive Director, Cargo Services, Mrs. Boma Ukwunna. She delivered the opening remarks, thanking stakeholders for their continued partnership over the years.
Mrs. Ukwunna described the gathering as a dual-purpose initiative—a celebration of sector achievements and an opportunity to identify persistent challenges. She noted the importance of strategic cooperation to improve service delivery and align with global logistics practices.
She also emphasized SAHCO’s commitment to modernizing operations through consistent investments in ground handling technology and infrastructure. According to her, the company operates some of the most sophisticated Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and warehousing facilities in Nigeria.
Furthermore, stakeholders addressed key issues such as inadequate packaging of Nigerian export products. It was agreed that poor packaging affects competitiveness and hinders acceptance in international markets. Exporters were urged to adopt global packaging and labelling standards.
In addition, participants discussed challenges surrounding cargo traceability. Many noted that the absence of an effective traceability system has compromised product accountability from origin to destination. They called for digital integration to enable transparent tracking across supply chains.
Concerns were also raised about the lack of formal training among clearing agents and freight handlers. This shortfall has led to substandard documentation, unethical practices, and the rise of touting at key cargo terminals.
As a solution, stakeholders unanimously recommended mandatory professional certification for all personnel operating within the cargo logistics space. This, they argued, would ensure better compliance and reliability in the system.
Mrs. Ukwunna reiterated that SAHCO is positioned to lead industry transformation through innovation, infrastructure, and stakeholder partnerships. She emphasized that the company’s investments are aimed at creating safer, faster, and more transparent cargo operations in Nigeria.
The meeting further highlighted the critical need for digital skills among logistics professionals. Participants were encouraged to embrace technology and basic IT knowledge as the cargo industry moves toward automation and digitized clearance processes.
SAHCO’s commitment to improve service quality and encourage sector growth was widely praised. Attendees acknowledged the company’s leadership role in setting industry standards and initiating conversations that tackle real-world cargo challenges.
Ultimately, the Cargo Stakeholders’ Meeting was described as timely and vital. It presented a platform for key voices to align strategies, share knowledge, and strengthen ties across the sector.
As Nigeria intensifies efforts to diversify its economy, platforms like this help strengthen cargo industry collaboration and lay the foundation for sustainable logistics development. SAHCO continues to champion innovation, partnership, and regulatory excellence in Nigeria’s cargo ecosystem.
