The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (nahco aviance) has expanded its operational fleet with the commissioning of a new batch of multi-million-dollar ground support equipment (GSE), in continuation of its ambitious refleeting programme aimed at modernising aviation services nationwide.
The commissioning, which took place on Tuesday, 2nd September, underscores NAHCO’s sustained investment in critical equipment to support airlines and enhance service delivery at airports across the country.
At the ceremony, the Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors, Dr. Seinde Oladapo Fadeni, explained that the acquisition was not only targeted at boosting customer satisfaction but also at improving the working conditions of staff.
“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. I can confirm to you that we have a lot in our cap, and we’re bringing them out one by one,” he said.
Dr. Fadeni disclosed that the procurement process commenced last year but encountered delays due to production and shipping schedules, adding that the Company is on track to achieve a fully upgraded equipment fleet by the end of 2026.
Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Didier Stuellet, praised the Board’s decision to commit to such heavy investments in dollar terms, describing it as a strategic move that would place NAHCO ahead of competitors.
“This is a huge investment. We’re talking about millions of dollars. For the owners of a company like this to take such a decision shows a great commitment to the future. This is undoubtedly the best decision for NAHCO,” Stuellet affirmed.
He noted that the Company is already more than halfway through its refleeting journey, with more equipment expected to arrive in the coming months and years.
For his part, Head of GSE, Charles Karinga, described the acquisition of nine brand-new high loaders as historic in the Nigerian aviation industry.
“Buying this number of high loaders at the same time is not something normally done by many handlers in this region because they are very expensive. This is the first time this would be happening,” Karinga said.
He explained that high loaders are essential for loading and unloading cargo, food, and other air transport items, and added that the newly acquired brand ranks among the best in the global market.
Since the launch of NAHCO’s refleeting programme in 2024, the company has consistently taken delivery of new equipment each quarter.
With its latest additions, NAHCO has further strengthened its position as a leading ground handling service provider in West Africa, setting new standards for operational efficiency and reliability.
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