The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria has suspended its planned industrial action over the lingering N9bn debt dispute, following the intervention of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority.
The association said the strike, earlier scheduled to commence on Thursday (today), was put on hold after the aviation regulator invited its leadership to a stakeholders’ meeting slated for May 12 at the NCAA annex office at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Olaniyi Adigun, and Vice-Chairman, Ahmed Bashir, the association explained that the decision to suspend the strike was taken in the interest of dialogue and industry stability.
The association stated that it “decided to put on hold the industrial action due to the intervention from the NCAA,” adding that the invitation to a formal meeting signalled a willingness by regulators to address the concerns raised by their members.
AGHAN further disclosed that it had also received a formal communication from the Airline Operators of Nigeria regarding the issues at the heart of the dispute, describing the development as an encouraging step toward resolving the crisis.
According to the association, it would honour the NCAA’s invitation, stressing that “as an association, we will attend the NCAA’s meeting as scheduled.” The body described the intervention as “a positive step towards structured engagement and constructive dialogue among key stakeholders in the aviation sector.”
The ground handlers added that it reflects growing recognition of the need for collaborative problem-solving within the industry. AGHAN said it is currently consulting widely with its members and other relevant stakeholders to review the communication received and determine a unified position ahead of the scheduled meeting.
“In view of this correspondence, the association is consulting its members and relevant stakeholders to review the contents and determine an appropriate collective position,” the statement noted.
It added that all previously planned industrial actions would remain suspended pending the outcome of ongoing discussions and the establishment of a clear resolution framework.
“Any previously contemplated industry actions remain on hold pending the outcome of ongoing engagements and the establishment of a clear resolution framework to be communicated at the appropriate time,” the association stated.
Reiterating its commitment to the aviation sector, AGHAN assured the flying public and industry players that it remains dedicated to maintaining operational stability and safety across Nigerian airports.
They emphasised that “it remains fully committed to the stability, safety, and uninterrupted operations of the aviation industry in Nigeria. All matters can be resolved through continued dialogue, mutual understanding, and adherence to due process.”
It also appealed for calm among stakeholders and the general public as engagements continue, assuring that efforts are ongoing to reach a lasting and mutually beneficial resolution.
“We therefore urge all parties and the general public to remain calm as structured engagements continue between stakeholders, with a view to achieving a lasting and mutually beneficial resolution,” the statement added.
