The Association of Ground Handling Companies of Nigeria has directed its members to issue seven-day notices to two major domestic airlines, threatening to suspend ground handling services over outstanding debts that collectively account for more than 70 per cent of the total indebtedness owed to its members.
The directive followed an executive meeting of the association held on Friday, September 4, 2026, where members expressed concern over what they described as the “significant and prolonged indebtedness” owed by some domestic airlines.
This was contained in a Wednesday statement signed by the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the association, Olaniyi Adigun and Ahmed Gulmah, respectively.
If the ground handlers carry out their threat, the move could have wider implications for the normal flow of airline operations.
Ground handling is central to the routine movement of aircraft at airports, making the resolution of the debt dispute important not only to the companies involved but also to passengers.
According to the statement, the affected airlines are expected to pay 75 per cent of their outstanding debts within seven days, while the remaining 25 per cent is to be settled through a mutually agreed repayment plan to be completed within 90 days.
Although AGHAN did not disclose the names of the two airlines, the proposed suspension could disrupt their operations if the affected carriers fail to meet the payment requirements within the stipulated period.
The association said the mounting debts had placed considerable financial pressure on ground handling companies, making it increasingly difficult for them to meet their own obligations to workers, suppliers, lenders, shareholders and statutory stakeholders.
Ground handlers also said they require significant and continuous investment in ground support equipment, technology, personnel training, safety systems and quality assurance to keep airport operations running efficiently.
AGHAN added that the failure of some airlines to settle their bills was threatening the financial sustainability of companies that provide these essential services.
The association said, “The persistent failure of some client airlines to meet their financial obligations has placed considerable financial pressure on ground handling companies.”
It added that the pressure was affecting the ability of its members to “meet their own obligations to employees, suppliers, statutory stakeholders, lenders and shareholders,” as well as sustain investments required for safe and efficient operations.
AGHAN, however, said it was not seeking confrontation with the airlines and recognised their importance to Nigeria’s aviation industry.
“AGHAN recognises the critical role of domestic airlines in Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem and remains committed to resolving outstanding financial obligations through constructive engagement and mutually acceptable arrangements,” it said.
The association further maintained that commercial obligations across the aviation value chain must be respected if the industry is to remain sustainable.
“The sustainability of ground handling operations requires a fair and responsible approach to commercial obligations across the aviation value chain,” AGHAN said.
The association urged the affected airlines to use the seven-day notice period to engage with their respective ground handling companies and meet the agreed payment requirements to avoid disruption of services.
AGHAN also reaffirmed its support for the five-point agenda of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, saying it remained committed to a Nigerian aviation industry that is safe, efficient, commercially sustainable and globally competitive.
The association said its members would continue working with domestic and international airlines.
It further pledged that, despite the financial difficulties confronting the sector, ground handling companies would continue investing in their workforce, equipment, technology, training, safety systems and quality assurance.
