NAHCO Employee, Auwal Dankode, Wins Global Recognition at GHI Unsung Hero Award in Spain

…Emerges Champion Among Six Finalists for Exemplary Integrity

Auwal Dankode, a dedicated cabin cleaner with the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (NAHCO), has clinched the prestigious Unsung Hero Award at the Ground Handling International (GHI) Conference in Barcelona, Spain.

Dankode’s remarkable display of honesty, returning $10,000 found during a cabin cleaning operation at Kano International Airport, set him apart from five other finalists representing various countries.

The Pride of Groundhandling Awards, an integral part of the GHI Annual Conference, celebrates exceptional contributions and exemplary acts within the aviation ground handling sector.

The event, which brought together nearly 1,000 stakeholders, including over 110 airline carriers from 60 countries, saw Dankode’s integrity hailed as a shining example of professional ethics and personal values.

Dankode’s act of honesty unfolded when he discovered the substantial sum of $10,000 in a seat recently vacated by travellers aboard an Egypt Air flight.

Without hesitation, he handed over the funds, embodying NAHCO’s commitment to integrity and excellence.

His story quickly gained national prominence, shared widely on social media and celebrated by Nigerians who commended his rare moral stance.

In acknowledgment of his outstanding behaviour, NAHCO rewarded Dankode with several accolades, including cash incentives, a double promotion, and the prestigious appointment as the company’s brand ambassador.

Additionally, the National Orientation Agency recognised him as the “Nigerian of the Week” on August 28th, further solidifying his status as a role model of accountability and honesty.

Dankode’s recognition at the GHI Awards underscores the global relevance of his act. A panel of international judges adjudged his integrity superior to that of other finalists, earning him the coveted title of Unsung Hero.

The award ceremony, an annual highlight for the aviation ground handling community, aims to honour unsung individuals whose contributions might otherwise go unnoticed.

Nigerians across social media platforms have lauded Dankode’s unwavering honesty, particularly in the face of economic pressures exacerbated by the naira’s exchange rate against the US dollar.

Many have noted that his actions serve as a reminder of the importance of ethical values, even in challenging circumstances.

The GHI Annual Conference is a flagship event for the global aviation ground handling community, bringing together ground handling operators, airlines, and investors to foster collaboration and celebrate excellence.

This year’s event highlighted the industry’s resilience and dedication, with Dankode’s story standing out as an emblem of integrity and professionalism.

Dankode’s victory at the GHI Awards not only honours his personal achievement but also casts a positive spotlight on NAHCO for recognising and rewarding his integrity which earned him a global spotlight, showcasing the calibre of the company’s workforce and the enduring value of honesty in today’s world.