SAHCO, MMIA Customs Command Agree to Deepen Collaboration

SAHCO, MMIA Customs Command Agree to Deepen Collaboration
…Ground Handler, Customs Seek Joint Solutions to Improve Airport Efficiency

By Prince Benson Davies

Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc has initiated talks with the new leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service at Murtala Muhammed International Airport on how to improve cargo handling and service delivery.

The SAHCO team, led by Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, visited the MMIA Customs Area Command to meet Comptroller Godwin Otunla who recently assumed duty at the airport. The engagement focused on building a stronger working relationship between the aviation handler and Customs.

Speaking during the visit, Aboderin said the timing of the meeting was important considering the increasing volume of cargo and passengers passing through MMIA. She explained that ground handlers and customs officers must work in sync to cut down processing time, reduce bottlenecks, and support government’s efforts to grow trade and revenue.

She stated that SAHCO is positioned to support national economic objectives by ensuring that cargo and baggage operations are handled professionally, securely, and in compliance with all regulations. The CEO added that the company is open to working with the new Customs command to identify areas where processes can be streamlined for better results.

Comptroller Otunla received the delegation and commended SAHCO for its role in airport operations. He said the Customs Service will continue to balance trade facilitation with enforcement to protect government revenue and national security.

According to him, collaboration with critical stakeholders such as SAHCO is vital to meeting the Command’s revenue goals and to enhancing the experience of travelers and cargo agents at the airport. He noted that improved communication and coordination will help address challenges that often delay clearance.

Both sides discussed issues around information sharing, joint training, and better coordination between agencies operating at the airport. They agreed that a more formal framework for engagement will help to resolve issues quickly, reduce friction, and make MMIA more competitive.

Aboderin said SAHCO will sustain its engagement with regulatory bodies to ensure that Nigeria’s aviation sector benefits from efficient ground handling services. She noted that the company is aligning with federal policies on export promotion, ease of doing business, and global competitiveness of Nigerian airports.

The SAHCO boss expressed hope that the courtesy visit will lead to concrete steps that improve turnaround time for cargo, strengthen compliance, and increase revenue collection for government.

She added that with air traffic and cargo movements on the rise, there is need for all stakeholders at MMIA to maintain regular dialogue and joint problem-solving.

The visit forms part of SAHCO’s broader stakeholder engagement strategy aimed at supporting the growth of aviation and trade in Nigeria through improved operational partnerships.