SAHCO Secures Exclusive Ground Handling at New Ogun Gateway Airport

Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO) has been appointed the exclusive ground handling service provider for the newly commissioned Gateway International Airport in Iperu, Ogun State, a move that solidifies its market leadership in Nigeria. The airport, officially opened in April 2026, features a 4,000-meter runway and is designed to become a strategic hub for both passenger and specialized agro-cargo operations, aiming to boost Nigeria's non-oil exports.

The appointment positions SAHCO as the sole manager of all ground services, including ramp handling, passenger facilitation, and cargo logistics at the new facility. This exclusive contract underscores the company's significant operational footprint across Nigeria and reflects a growing trend of consolidating ground handling services at key regional airports.

SAHCO's Role and Strategic Expansion

For SAHCO, securing the exclusive contract at Gateway International Airport is a major strategic victory. The company, which operates at over 22 airport locations in Nigeria, has demonstrated significant growth. According to its Q3 2025 earnings release, SAHCO reported a 9-month revenue of ₦31.7 billion, a 58% year-over-year increase driven by expansions in its cargo and ground handling segments.

Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of SAHCO, framed the appointment as a testament to the company's reliability and ongoing investment. “This milestone further reinforces SAHCO’s commitment to supporting the growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector through continuous investment in modern equipment, skilled personnel, and innovative service solutions,” he stated. “Being selected as the sole ground handler at such a landmark event highlights our readiness to deliver seamless operations at new and existing airports nationwide.”

The company will leverage its partnership with Nigerian cargo carrier Allied Air to establish efficient cargo operations from the airport's modern warehouse complex. This collaboration is expected to enhance processing for time-sensitive and high-value goods, particularly supporting the agriculture, manufacturing, and e-commerce sectors in the region.

A New Agro-Cargo Hub for West Africa

Gateway International Airport is a cornerstone of Ogun State's strategy to become a primary economic hub and alleviate logistical pressures on the nearby Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. The airport's design is integrated with the state's Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ), creating a direct pipeline for agricultural exports to international markets. This development addresses a critical need to reduce post-harvest losses and improve the competitiveness of Nigerian produce.

The airport's infrastructure is built to handle significant cargo volumes. The 4,000-meter runway is capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft, including the Boeing 777 and Airbus A380, which are essential for long-haul freight operations. This capability provides a distinct advantage for cargo carriers looking to bypass the congestion often experienced at MMIA.

All operations must adhere to standards set by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), which governs ground handling licenses and safety protocols. SAHCO's operations will be required to maintain compliance with both national regulations and international standards, such as ICAO Annex 9 (Facilitation) and Annex 17 (Security).

Gateway International Airport vs. Murtala Muhammed International Airport

Context and Industry Precedent

This state-led airport development follows a pattern seen elsewhere in Nigeria. The commissioning of Anambra International Cargo Airport in 2021 provides a recent and analogous precedent. That project also focused on boosting regional trade and providing modern infrastructure to support exports, successfully launching both commercial and cargo flights. The outcome in Anambra suggests a viable model for state-level investment in aviation infrastructure to drive economic growth, a pattern Ogun State aims to replicate and enhance with its focus on agro-processing.

The appointment of a single ground handler is also consistent with an industry trend toward market consolidation, where major players like SAHCO, profiled by industry analysts like CAPA, secure long-term, exclusive contracts at new or developing airports to ensure standardized service levels and operational efficiency.

What Comes Next

With the airport now officially commissioned, the next critical step is the ramp-up of commercial operations. According to the Ogun State Government, the commencement of full commercial cargo operations, including the arrival of the first European cargo aircraft, is expected by May 2026. This milestone will be a key indicator of the airport's operational readiness and its ability to attract international logistics partners.

Why This Matters

The launch of Gateway International Airport and SAHCO's exclusive role represent a significant development in Nigeria's aviation landscape. It diversifies the country's aviation infrastructure away from historically congested federal airports and provides a tailored solution for the growing agro-export market. For SAHCO, this contract not only provides a new revenue stream but also cements its dominant position in the Nigerian ground handling sector.