May 27, (THEWILL) – Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC has restated its commitment to the transformation of Nigeria’s cargo and aviation handling sector through strategic engagement and collaboration with key industry players.
The company made this known during a Cargo Stakeholders’ Forum it hosted recently, which brought together major actors in the cargo logistics value chain—including clearing agents, exporters, and logistics professionals—to discuss the future of Nigeria’s cargo industry.
The event served as a platform for in-depth dialogue aimed at enhancing trade, promoting operational efficiency, and aligning the sector with government’s economic diversification agenda.
In her welcome address, SAHCO’s Managing Director/CEO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin—represented by the Executive Director, Cargo Services, Mrs. Boma Ukwunna—thanked stakeholders for their continued partnership.
She noted that the engagement was both a celebration of progress and a call for renewed collaboration in addressing industry challenges.
Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Hon. Bola Ashiru, commended SAHCO for investing in world-class infrastructure, especially its cold storage facility.
According to him, the facility has significantly improved the handling of perishable goods and created employment opportunities.
Ashiru stressed the need for Nigeria to shift away from oil dependence and prioritize the cargo and logistics sector as a key driver of economic growth.
A representative of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) highlighted the need for stakeholders to embrace digital transformation.
He encouraged players in the industry to acquire basic computer skills to stay competitive as port processes transition to full automation.
In her remarks, Mrs. Ukwunna reiterated SAHCO’s resolve to continue investing in modern equipment and advanced warehousing systems to support compliant and efficient cargo operations.
She noted that the company operates some of the most sophisticated Ground Support Equipment (GSE) in the country.
Participants also identified several key issues affecting the sector, including the poor packaging of Nigerian export goods, the lack of traceability systems, and the absence of formal training for clearing agents and freight forwarders.
It was agreed that improving packaging standards is crucial for global competitiveness, while traceability systems must be strengthened to ensure product accountability from origin to destination.
Stakeholders also emphasised the need for proper certification and training to curb unethical practices, improve documentation, and eliminate touting within the sector.
The forum concluded with a unified call for industry reform, stronger partnerships, and a clearly defined roadmap to reposition Nigeria’s cargo logistics industry for sustainable growth and global relevance.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
