Airport Cleaner Returns $730 Found on British Airways Flight, Earns Company Praise

Airport Cleaner Returns $730 Found on British Airways Flight, Earns Company Praise.

An aircraft cleaner with Skyway Aviation Handling Company PLC (SAHCO) has been publicly recognised by his employer after he found and returned a purse containing cash and credit cards left behind on a British Airways flight.

Mr Ibrahim Bala Zakari, a cabin cleaner, was carrying out his routine duties on British Airways Flight BA8382 when he discovered the purse in seat 35K. Inside were 730 US dollars and several credit cards.

Rather than keep the items, Zakari immediately notified the British Airways Cabin Services Duty Manager (CSDM). The purse and everything inside it were later handed over to the British Airways Security team for proper handling and procedures.

READ: South Africa can pay every citizen R1 million every year for the rest of their lives, immigrants will come to work for us, like in Dubai – Phakelumthakathi

SAHCO shared the news in a statement, describing Zakari’s actions as a display of honesty and professionalism. The company said his conduct reflects the culture of integrity that defines the organisation and praised him for setting an example worth following.

The gesture has since drawn positive reactions online, with many Nigerians commending Zakari for his honesty. Some have called for further rewards beyond the company’s recognition, noting that such acts of integrity are rare and should be encouraged.

READ: OPM Founder Provides Free Housing, Transport for Nigerians Fleeing South Africa

This is not the first time a cleaner at a Nigerian airport has returned money found on an aircraft. Similar stories have emerged over the years, with workers choosing to hand over valuables rather than keep them. These acts often stand out because airport cleaners earn modest wages and could easily take such finds without anyone knowing.

For Zakari, the recognition from his employer and the public response may open doors for him. Many who have followed the story hope the attention brings more than just praise, perhaps a financial reward or a promotion.

SAHCO’s decision to publicly acknowledge Zakari could also encourage other workers to act with similar honesty. When companies celebrate integrity openly, it sends a clear message that doing the right thing is noticed and valued.

As for the owner of the purse, British Airways security would have taken steps to trace the passenger and return the items. The airline has not publicly commented on the matter, but such procedures are standard in cases of recovered property left on board.

READ: FG to End JSS-SSS Split as 20 Million Pupils Abandon School

For now, Ibrahim Bala Zakari remains a name many Nigerians are talking about. In a time when bad news often dominates the headlines, his story offers a welcome reminder that honesty still exists in places where it is least expected.