Juliet Ezeh
The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) has temporarily shelved its planned industrial action following the intervention of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in the ongoing N9bn debt dispute.
The strike, which was set to begin on Thursday, was suspended after the aviation regulator invited the association’s leadership to a stakeholders’ meeting scheduled for May 12. The meeting will take place at the NCAA annex office located within the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos.
In a joint statement issued by AGHAN Chairman, Olaniyi Adigun, and Vice-Chairman, Ahmed Bashir, the association said the decision to pause the strike was driven by the need to allow room for dialogue and protect stability within the aviation sector.
According to the statement, the NCAA’s intervention, alongside a formal communication from the Airline Operators of Nigeria, signals a renewed effort by key stakeholders to address the underlying issues fueling the dispute.
AGHAN described these developments as encouraging, noting that they reflect a growing commitment within the industry to pursue collaborative and structured solutions.
The association confirmed it would participate fully in the scheduled meeting, adding that it is currently engaging its members and other stakeholders to review the latest communications and align on a collective position ahead of the discussions.
“All previously planned industrial actions have been put on hold pending the outcome of these engagements and the establishment of a clear resolution framework,” the statement noted.
AGHAN also reassured passengers and industry operators of its continued commitment to ensuring safe, stable, and uninterrupted aviation services across the country.
The group emphasized that lasting solutions can only be achieved through sustained dialogue, mutual understanding, and adherence to due process.
It further called for calm among stakeholders and the general public, expressing confidence that ongoing negotiations would lead to a mutually beneficial resolution.
