The Federal Government of Nigeria, acting through the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), has conferred a significant honour on Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc. The leading aviation ground handling company has been named the 'Best Employer in SIWES Student Acceptance 2025'.
Recognition for Commitment to Student Development
According to a statement released by the company's Head of Corporate Communications, Vanessa Uansohia, the award was presented earlier in December 2025. It specifically recognises SAHCO's consistent dedication to the Students' Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES). The company was praised for its regular acceptance and provision of structured training to students from tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
The award underscores SAHCO's sustained efforts in facilitating practical skills acquisition, offering crucial workplace exposure, and contributing to capacity building for the young Nigerians who participate in the federal SIWES programme.
Leadership Hails the Achievement
Reacting to the prestigious recognition, the Chairman of SAHCO Plc, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, expressed great delight. He described the award as a validation of the company's long-standing investment in human capital development.
"As a leading ground handling company in Nigeria and West Africa, SAHCO has always encouraged students to put into practice what they have learnt in the classroom," Dr. Afolabi stated. "Beyond technical exposure, we also guide them on workplace ethics, professionalism, and the realities of the work environment."
He reaffirmed the company's resolve to continue playing a pivotal role in the technical and professional growth of young Nigerians, contributing to employment generation irrespective of their backgrounds. He also commended the ITF for the award, noting it would motivate SAHCO to deepen its contributions to national development.
Spur for Further Initiatives
Echoing the Chairman's sentiments, the Managing Director of SAHCO Plc, Nike Aboderin, also lauded the ITF. She described the award as a strong encouragement for the company's people-development initiatives.
"We commend the Industrial Training Fund for this recognition. It will spur us to do even more in supporting skills development and contributing to the growth of the Nigerian workforce," Aboderin stated.
The award highlights the critical role of private sector partnership in Nigeria's educational and vocational training landscape. SAHCO's commitment provides a model for other corporations on integrating academic learning with hands-on industrial experience, ultimately building a more competent and employable workforce for the nation's future.
