The aviation industry remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic growth, contributing significantly despite facing numerous obstacles. One individual making notable strides in this vital sector is Victor Mgbachi, the Co-founder and Managing Director of Leading-Edge Aviation Services Ltd.
Founded in 2021, Leading-Edge Aviation Services was established with the mission of transforming aviation operations in Nigeria. Mgbachi’s vision for the company reflects his over 21 years of experience in the aviation industry, starting from humble beginnings.
Reflecting on his career, Mgbachi said, “I began my journey in 2003 as an intern in the cargo department of the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO). After completing my internship, I was offered a position as a baggage handler in the cargo department in 2005.”
Mgbachi’s fascination with the scale of cargo operations and the principles of aerodynamics fueled his passion for aviation. “The size of cargo aircraft and the volume of goods they transport captured my interest, and I sought to deepen my knowledge by enrolling in several aviation training programs. Learning from experienced aviators helped me develop a strong foundation and kept me engaged in the field for two decades.”
In 2008, Mgbachi left NAHCO and joined Virgin Nigeria Airways as a turn-around coordinator, later transitioning to Arik Air in 2009. In 2012, he was invited to join ExecuJet, a startup at the time, as the pioneer Head of Operations and FBO (Fixed Base Operator) Manager. There, he built the operations team from the ground up, transforming the company into a multi-million-dollar enterprise. Nine years later, in 2021, Mgbachi co-founded Leading-Edge Aviation Services alongside two other aviation experts.
Mgbachi holds the prestigious Business Aviation Certification from the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) as the 923rd Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) globally. His commitment to the industry is further evidenced by his memberships in major aviation associations such as the CBAA, EBAA, AfBAA, and his certification as a Business Analysis Professional (CBAP®️) from the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA).
Despite the economic challenges facing Nigeria, Mgbachi remains optimistic about his company’s growth. “Economic challenges are inevitable, and the Nigerian aviation sector is no exception, particularly with limited government intervention. However, as a startup, we conducted a SWOT analysis and focused on leveraging our strengths and opportunities to mitigate potential threats. Regardless of economic conditions, we remain committed to providing the highest standards of professionalism. If people need to travel, we will continue to adapt and ensure service excellence.”
Mgbachi also highlighted aviation’s vital role in the nation’s economic development, particularly in tourism. “Tourism heavily relies on aviation. By enabling travel, air transport creates jobs, drives economic growth, and helps alleviate poverty. Approximately 1.2 billion tourists cross international borders annually, with over half traveling by air.”
His company, Leading-Edge Aviation Services, specializes in scheduling and dispatching tactical aircraft missions, offering both local and international expertise in General and Corporate Aviation (GCA) for commercial airlines, VVIP handling, aircraft management, and FBO operations. Mgbachi emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards: “Every day presents new challenges, but our goal remains consistent: managing operations in accordance with civil aviation procedures to achieve on-time performance.”
In closing, Mgbachi stressed the importance of safety in aviation. “Safety, diligence, and professionalism are non-negotiable. In aviation, we say, ‘when you see something, say something.’ Safety must always be the top priority, from ground services to takeoff, landing, and offloading. Over 130,000 flights occur globally each day, and we must ensure that every one of them is managed with the utmost care. Collaboration among stakeholders is key to ensuring seamless and safe operations.”
Victor Mgbachi’s dedication to innovation and safety is driving significant transformation in Nigeria’s aviation sector, positioning Leading-Edge Aviation Services as a leader in the field.
