Ground Handlers Threaten Shutdown Over Airlines’ N9bn Debt

Domestic and international flight operations by indigenous airlines may face major disruption from Tuesday following a seven-day ultimatum issued by the Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) over an outstanding debt of more than N9 billion owed by airline operators.

AGHAN, the umbrella body representing five major ground handling companies in Nigeria, said the lingering debt has placed severe financial pressure on its members and could force them to suspend operations if the airlines fail to settle the obligations within the stipulated period.

The association stated that the debt is affecting the ability of ground handling firms to continue providing essential aviation services such as passenger check-in, baggage handling, aircraft marshalling, refuelling coordination, and ramp services.

The affected companies include Skyway Handling Company of Nigeria (SAHCO) Plc, Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) Plc, Butake Handling Company, Precision Handling Company Limited, and Swissport Handling Company.

In a letter dated April 21, 2026, titled “Outstanding Indebtedness and Notice of Possible Withdrawal of Services,” AGHAN formally notified the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) of its decision.

The letter was jointly signed by AGHAN Chairman, Olaniyi Adigun, and Vice Chairman, Ahmed Bashir, and copied to key government officials, including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo; Director-General of Civil Aviation, Chris Najomo; Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku; Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi; and the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.

AGHAN warned that member companies may be compelled to withdraw their services from April 28 if the debts remain unpaid.

According to the association, repeated efforts and engagements with the airline operators to recover the outstanding payments have failed to produce meaningful results, with several payment commitments left unmet.

“This situation has continued to exert significant pressure on the operational capacity of our members, adversely affecting their ability to deliver sustainable, efficient and safe services. It has also created considerable financial strain on the management and workforce of the affected organisations,” the letter stated.

It added that to protect the continued viability of their operations, members may be left with no option but to halt services should the debts remain unresolved after the expiration of the seven-day notice.

AGHAN expressed hope that the ultimatum would prompt immediate action from the airlines to avoid disruption across the aviation sector and apologised to passengers for any inconvenience the development may cause.

The association also reiterated its commitment to resolving the issue peacefully while ensuring the sustainability of aviation ground handling services in the country.