BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (NAHCO aviance), has secured mega ground handling contracts with Afrijet and Air Sierra Leone (ASL), notable regional operators in West Africa.
The ground handler in a statement expressed excitement over the deals, noting that these partnerships mark a strong start for 2025 as it trudges on to solidify its position as the foremost ground handling service provider in Nigeria.
Under the agreements, NAHCO will handle Afrijet’s flights into Port Harcourt and Lagos for a three-year term, spanning 2024 to 2027.
Similarly, the company will provide comprehensive ground handling services for Air Sierra Leone’s operations in Lagos over a five-year period, from 2024 to 2029.
Expressing his delight at the development, Prince Saheed Lasisi, Group Executive Director, Commercial & Business Development of NAHCO Plc, highlighted the company’s impeccable reputation in the aviation industry.
He said: “NAHCO delivers at all times. Our more than 45 years of unblemished service record sets us apart from every other service provider in the industry. Starting the year with these contracts is a testament to the trust airlines place in us”.
He continued, “Our team of professional and experienced staff has consistently set the benchmark for ground handling operations in Nigeria. We assure Afrijet and Air Sierra Leone that they have made the best choice. We welcome them to a smooth and fascinating experience.”
Also speaking on the deals, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NAHCO Plc, Mr. Olumuyiwa Olumekun, emphasised the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional service.
“We are deeply honored by the trust Afrijet and Air Sierra Leone have placed in us. At NAHCO, quality, consistency, and exceptional service are non-negotiable. We are in this for the long term, ensuring that our valued clients have no cause for complaints,” Olumekun said.
With these contracts, NAHCO said it remained determined to increasing its share of ground operations for international and regional airlines in Nigeria.
NAHCO was founded in December 1979 through a collaboration between the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and four international airlines—Air France, British Airways, Lufthansa and Sabena.
NAHCO has since transformed into a publicly quoted company listed on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX).
Today, NAHCO is a multi-billion-naira institution with diversified investments spanning energy, logistics, Free Trade Zone operations, airport management, travel and hospitality, and food and beverage exports.
Its major institutional investors as of December 31, 2023, include Godsmart Nigeria Limited (26.95%), White Cowries Industries Limited (9.16%), and Awhua Resources Limited (7.13%).
