Handling firms suspend planned strike over N9bn airline debt

The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) has suspended its planned industrial action earlier scheduled to commence on Thursday, May 7, 2026, following the intervention of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). In a statement issued in Lagos, AGHAN said the decision to put the strike on hold was prompted by an invitation from […]

The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) has suspended its planned industrial action earlier scheduled to commence on Thursday, May 7, 2026, following the intervention of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

In a statement issued in Lagos, AGHAN said the decision to put the strike on hold was prompted by an invitation from the NCAA to attend a crucial stakeholders’ meeting slated for Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at the regulator’s annex office at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos.

The association also confirmed receipt of a formal communication from the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) regarding the ongoing dispute, which centres around an estimated N9 billion owed to ground handling companies by domestic airlines.

AGHAN described the NCAA’s intervention as a positive step toward fostering structured engagement and constructive dialogue among key players in the aviation industry.

“As an association, we will attend the NCAA’s meeting as scheduled,” the statement signed by AGHAN Chairman, Olaniyi Adigun and Vice-Chairman, Ahmed Bashir noted, adding that consultations are ongoing among its members and other stakeholders to review the latest developments and determine a unified position.

The group emphasized that all previously planned industrial actions remain suspended pending the outcome of these engagements and the establishment of a clear resolution framework.

AGHAN reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining stability, safety, and uninterrupted operations within Nigeria’s aviation sector, stressing that the issues at hand can be resolved through dialogue, mutual understanding, and due process.

The association also urged stakeholders and the general public to remain calm as discussions continue, expressing optimism that a lasting and mutually beneficial resolution would be achieved.

The statement added, “Also, we have received a formal communication from the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) in relation to the ongoing industry concerns.

 

“We want to say through this medium that as an association, we will attend the NCAA’s meeting as scheduled.

 

“The Association acknowledges this development as a positive step towards structured engagement and constructive dialogue among key stakeholders in the aviation sector.”