The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (NAHCO) posted a 22 per cent increase in profit before tax for the first half of 2026, as higher revenue, operational efficiency and continued investment in infrastructure strengthened earnings amid sustained activity in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The company’s unaudited financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2026, showed profit before tax rose to N14.37 billion, compared with N11.79 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2025.
A filing with the Nigerian Exchange Limited showed that gross revenue increased by 9.4 per cent to N35.36 billion, from N32.33 billion a year earlier, reflecting improved business volumes and additional income streams.
Operating profit climbed 25.4 per cent to N14.59 billion, up from N11.64 billion in the first half of last year, highlighting stronger cost management and improved operational performance.
Profit after tax also advanced by 22.2 per cent to N10.85 billion, compared with N8.88 billion in the same period of 2025.
Despite an increase in the company’s issued shares following a bonus issue, adjusted earnings per share rose to N4.87 from N4.55, underscoring continued earnings growth.
NAHCO attributed the improved financial performance to more efficient operations, investments in modern equipment and infrastructure, and the expansion of new revenue sources.
The company remains one of Nigeria’s largest providers of aviation ground-handling services, offering passenger, cargo, ramp-handling, security and other airport support services to domestic and international airlines.
The strong half-year performance follows shareholder approval in May of an enhanced capital return programme for the 2025 financial year, comprising higher cash dividends and bonus shares.
NAHCO increased its total cash dividend payout to N12.18 billion, compared with N11.58 billion in the previous year, with shareholders receiving N6.25 per share, up from N5.94 paid for the 2024 financial year.
The company also implemented a one-for-seven bonus share issue, increasing its total outstanding shares from 1.95 billion to 2.23 billion, a move aimed at rewarding shareholders while improving stock liquidity.
Chairman Seinde Fadeni said the half-year performance reflected the returns from sustained investments in critical operational assets and continuous improvements in efficiency.
He said the company would maintain its investment programme in equipment and infrastructure to support rising demand and position the business for long-term growth as Nigeria’s aviation industry expands.
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