The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (NAHCO) has expanded its business portfolio with the opening of a 20-room luxury airport hotel at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport. This development highlights the company’s evolution from a conventional ground handling service provider to a full-fledged aviation services group.
Sapphire Hotel, situated within Terminal II’s departure area, comes amid a strong 2025 financial performance, with profits rising 40 per cent to N18 billion. NAHCO’s unaudited results for the year ended 31 December 2025, published on the Nigerian Exchange, revealed a revenue increase of 21.8 per cent, from N53.54 billion in 2024 to N65.21 billion in 2025. Gross profit reached N38.61 billion, while operating profit climbed 25 per cent to N24.84 billion.
Profit before tax surged 30 per cent to N24.26 billion, and after-tax profit jumped nearly 40 per cent to N17.99 billion, driving earnings per share up from N6.60 to N9.24. The gains were achieved despite inflationary challenges, thanks to improved operational efficiency and stable administrative expenses at N13.89 billion.
At the hotel launch, NAHCO’s Group Executive Director, Commercial and Business Development, Prince Saheed Lasisi, emphasized that Sapphire Hotel represents a strategic extension of the company’s presence in the aviation value chain. Operated by NAHCO Travel and Hospitality Limited, the facility aims to create a holistic travel ecosystem beyond traditional ground handling.
Lasisi stated, “NAHCO continues to position itself as a trusted partner for seamless travel, and Sapphire Hotel promises guests an unmatched experience in Nigeria.” The hotel is designed to cater to international travelers, transit passengers on layovers, and business executives, offering 24/7 services steps from check-in and boarding gates.
According to Ms Ruky Ogbetuo, CEO of NAHCO Travel and Hospitality Limited, the hotel includes premium furnished rooms, a business office, fitness center, laundry service, complimentary breakfast, and varied lunch and dinner options. Its proximity to the 127-seat Sapphire Lounge, featuring a VVIP section and a dedicated prayer area, enhances convenience and exclusivity for high-end passengers.
Industry participants, including officials from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and representatives of international airlines, hailed the project as a major private-sector investment in Nigeria’s airport infrastructure. Analysts note that the initiative could boost NAHCO’s non-aeronautical revenue and contribute to more stable earnings.
