By James Daniel
The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) has suspended its planned industrial action over more than N9 billion owed to ground handling companies by domestic airlines.
The strike, which was scheduled to commence on Thursday, was put on hold following the intervention of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and a formal communication from the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON).
The planned action would have involved five major ground handling companies, including Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc, Skyway Handling Company of Nigeria, Butake Handling Company, Precision Handling Company Limited, and Swissport Handling Company, a move that could have significantly disrupted flight operations nationwide.
In a joint statement issued by AGHAN Chairman, Olaniyi Adigun, and Vice Chairman, Ahmed Bashir, the association said it decided to suspend the strike pending further engagements with relevant stakeholders.
“AGHAN wishes to inform aviation stakeholders, regulatory authorities, and the general public that it has put on hold the impending industrial action, which was scheduled to commence on Thursday, May 7, 2026,” the statement read.
The association disclosed that the NCAA had invited it to a meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at the authority’s annex office located at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos.
According to AGHAN, it also received a formal communication from the AON regarding the lingering dispute over unpaid debts.
“We have received a formal communication from the AON in relation to the ongoing industry concerns. As an association, we will attend the NCAA meeting as scheduled,” the statement added.
AGHAN described the intervention as a positive step towards constructive dialogue and structured engagement among stakeholders in the aviation sector.
The association further stated that it was currently consulting its members and other stakeholders to review the contents of the communication and determine a collective position.
It noted that all previously proposed industrial actions would remain suspended pending the outcome of discussions and the establishment of a clear resolution framework.
AGHAN reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring stability, safety and uninterrupted operations within Nigeria’s aviation industry.
“We strongly believe that all matters can be resolved through continued dialogue, mutual understanding and adherence to due process,” the association stated.
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