AGHAN gives airlines final three-day payment deadline

The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria has issued a final ultimatum to airlines over an estimated N9bn debt, threatening to withdraw critical ground handling services if payments are not made within three days.

In a letter addressed to the Airlines Operators of Nigeria and dated April 30, 2026, and obtained by our correspondent, the ground handlers expressed deep frustration over what they described as prolonged silence and inaction from airline operators despite earlier engagements.

“We refer to our letter dated 20th April 2026 on the above subject matter and wish to bring to your attention that, as of the date of this correspondence, we have yet to receive any communication, commitment, or concrete action from your members regarding the outstanding indebtedness,” the association stated.

Recall that AGHAN had earlier given a seven-working-day ultimatum to the airlines, but they claimed that they had been ignored.

The group warned that the continued lack of response has worsened the financial burden on its members, many of whom provide essential services such as aircraft marshaling, baggage handling, and ramp operations at airports nationwide.

“This continued lack of response has further heightened the financial and operational strain on our members, who have consistently engaged in good faith efforts toward an amicable resolution without success,” AGHAN added.

AGHAN, in its letter, described the correspondence as a final three-day notice to defaulting airlines, after which services would be withdrawn without further notice.

The letter read, “Consequently, we are constrained to issue a final notice of three days for the settlement of all outstanding obligations, failing which our members shall proceed with the withdrawal of services to all indebted airlines, without further recourse.”

The association further stressed that beyond halting services, it would also explore “all other remedies available under applicable laws for recovery of the debts.” However, AGHAN adjusted the timeline of its ultimatum in recognition of workers’ celebrations.

“Accordingly, the notice period shall now run from Monday, 4th May 2026 to Wednesday, 6th May 2026, after which the intended action will take effect should there be no satisfactory resolution.”

Despite the escalating standoff, the ground handlers maintained that dialogue remains possible, emphasising their willingness to avoid disruptions that could ripple across the aviation sector.

AGHAN stated, “Notwithstanding the foregoing, we remain open to immediate and constructive engagement aimed at resolving this matter amicably and avoiding any disruption to aviation operations and the travelling public.”

Reflecting the seriousness of the dispute, AGHAN confirmed that key government and security stakeholders have been notified, including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and the Department of State Services.

“Relevant stakeholders have been duly copied, in light of the far-reaching economic, safety, security, and national implications associated with this matter,” the association stated.

Meanwhile, efforts to get airlines to speak on the matter were not successful, as calls and text messages sent to the spokesperson of the AON, Prof Obiora Okonkwo, were neither picked up nor responded to.