The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria has suspended its planned industrial action over the unresolved N9 billion debt dispute following the intervention of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority.

The association said the strike, which had been scheduled to begin on Thursday, was suspended after the aviation regulator invited its leadership to a stakeholders’ meeting on May 12 at the NCAA annex office at Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

In a statement jointly signed by Chairman Olaniyi Adigun and Vice-Chairman Ahmed Bashir, the association said the decision to shelve the strike was made to allow room for dialogue and maintain stability in the aviation industry.

The association said it “decided to put the industrial action on hold following the intervention of the NCAA,” noting that the invitation to a formal stakeholders’ meeting reflected the regulator’s willingness to engage with and address the concerns raised by its members.

AGHAN also revealed that it had received a formal communication from the Airline Operators of Nigeria concerning the issues underlying the dispute, describing the move as a positive signal toward resolving the crisis.
The association said it would honour the NCAA’s invitation, stating that “as an association, we will attend the NCAA’s meeting as scheduled.”

It added that the regulator’s intervention represents “a positive step towards structured engagement and constructive dialogue among key stakeholders in the aviation sector.”

The ground handlers said the development reflects a growing recognition of the need for collaborative problem-solving within the aviation industry. AGHAN added that it is currently engaging in broad consultations with its members and other relevant stakeholders to review the communication received and adopt 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.

The association added that all previously planned industrial actions would remain suspended pending the outcome of ongoing engagements and the creation of a clear framework for resolving the dispute.

“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.

Reaffirming its commitment to the aviation sector, AGHAN assured the flying public and industry stakeholders of its continued dedication to maintaining operational stability and safety across airports in Nigeria.

“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,” they emphasised.