Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc has expanded its air cargo handling capabilities with new screening technology, heavy-duty equipment and improved operational facilities, as it seeks to strengthen cargo security and improve the movement of goods through Nigerian airports.
The investments were highlighted at the company’s Cargo Stakeholders Forum in Ikeja, Lagos, where industry participants discussed operational bottlenecks, cargo security and measures to improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in international air freight.
SAHCO Chairman, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, represented by the company’s Managing Director, Mrs Adenike Aboderin, said efficient cargo operations depended on modern infrastructure and closer cooperation among airlines, freight forwarders, regulatory agencies, cargo agents, importers and exporters.
He said air cargo remained essential to international trade and economic development, stressing that reliability, security and speed were increasingly important to businesses moving goods across borders.
Among the company’s latest equipment additions are a dual-view X-ray machine for cargo screening and an explosive trace detection machine to strengthen security checks and support regulatory compliance.
SAHCO has also acquired a 16-tonne forklift to improve its capacity to handle heavy and oversized consignments, including during loading, offloading and movement within cargo facilities.
The company has further strengthened its cold-chain handling capabilities to support the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods, including pharmaceutical products and perishables. These facilities are intended to help preserve cargo quality and reduce the risk of damage during handling.
Beyond equipment upgrades, SAHCO has expanded its cargo build-up operational area to improve workflow, make better use of available space and accommodate increasing cargo volumes.
Afolabi said the investments reflected the company’s efforts to improve operational efficiency, strengthen cargo protection and enhance customer service. He added that the company’s performance depended on the effective coordination of all players across the cargo value chain.
He noted that equipment and infrastructure alone would not guarantee improved performance without a skilled workforce, compliance with safety procedures and effective communication among industry stakeholders.
Participants at the forum called for stronger collaboration to address cargo logistics bottlenecks, improve security standards and reduce turnaround times. Discussions also provided an opportunity for industry operators to share feedback and consider practical measures to make cargo processing more efficient.
SAHCO said it would continue engaging customers and industry partners to identify operational gaps and improve service delivery, while maintaining investment in infrastructure, technology and handling capabilities.
The upgrades come as efficient cargo handling remains important to Nigeria’s ability to support international trade and attract greater air freight activity. Sustained progress will depend on combining modern equipment with coordinated procedures, regulatory compliance and cooperation among the organisations responsible for moving goods through airports.
