BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (nahco aviance) has once again raised the bar in ground handling services with the commissioning and deployment of another batch of multi-million-dollar ground support equipment (GSE).
This has reinforced its commitment to safety, efficiency and operational excellence across Nigeria’s airports.
The commissioning, which took place on Tuesday, September 2, marked another milestone in the company’s ongoing refleeting programme that began in 2024, aimed at completely modernising its equipment base by 2026.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr. Seinde Oladapo Fadeni, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to ensuring that NAHCO not only meets but exceeds industry standards.
He noted that the latest acquisition was part of a broader strategy to position the company as Africa’s foremost ground handling service provider.
“The essence of these equipment is not just for the company alone or for the customers, it is also to make life easier for the workers,” Fadeni said. “I can confirm to you that we have a lot in our cap, and we’re bringing them out one by one.”
Fadeni explained that the procurement process for the newly commissioned equipment began last year but was delayed due to manufacturing and shipping constraints.
Despite the delays, he stressed that NAHCO is determined to steadily expand its equipment pool until it achieves complete adequacy by 2026.
On his part, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Didier Stuellet, praised the boldness of the Board in making what he described as a difficult but necessary investment.
“It’s a huge investment. We’re talking about millions, not in naira, but in dollars. This is always difficult for the owners of a company like this to take, but it is the best decision for NAHCO,” Stuellet said.
He further emphasised that the equipment deployment is not an isolated action but part of a long-term commitment to fully upgrade and refleeting the company’s operations.
“It is also a clear message that the Company will make complete refleeting of equipment happen in the long term. We still have some equipment coming in the coming months and years,” he declared.
The Head of Ground Support Equipment (GSE), Mr. Charles Karinga, described the acquisition as groundbreaking, noting that NAHCO had procured nine brand-new high loaders at once, an unprecedented move in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“Buying this number of high loaders at the same time is not something that is normally done by many handlers in this clime because they are very expensive. This is the first time this would be happening,” Karinga explained.
He elaborated that high loaders are critical for efficient aircraft operations as they are equipped with high-reach lift mechanisms used to load and unload cargo, catering supplies, and other items cleared for air transport.
Karinga also highlighted that the brand of equipment chosen by NAHCO ranks among the best globally and would deliver durable, reliable service to both the company and its airline clients for many years.
The latest deployment builds on the company’s refleeting programme, first unveiled in 2024.
At the time, Dr. Fadeni had promised that by 2026 NAHCO would achieve a fully upgraded fleet.
“By 2026, we will have acquired all the necessary equipment to fully upgrade our fleet,” Fadeni had said during the programme’s launch.
“This initial delivery marks the beginning of significant advancements for NAHCO and our operational practices. Despite unforeseen delays from manufacturers and port authorities, we have now initiated a consistent delivery schedule.”
True to that promise, NAHCO has since taken delivery of new ground support equipment every quarter, strengthening its reputation as a company committed to growth and innovation.
Industry observers say NAHCO’s bold investments are not just about strengthening its own competitive edge but also about uplifting the broader aviation ecosystem in Nigeria.
The new equipment will improve turnaround times for airlines, enhance passenger satisfaction indirectly, and ensure safer, more efficient ground operations.
Dr. Fadeni reinforced this vision during the latest commissioning, stressing that the company’s investments were meant to have a ripple effect across the sector.
“The essence of these equipment is not just for NAHCO. It is for the industry, our customers, and most importantly, our workforce. We want our people to work smarter, safer, and with the best tools at their disposal,” he said.
