Nigerian ground handlers threaten service suspension over N9bn airline debt
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria AGHAN has issued a seven-day ultimatum to domestic airlines over an outstanding debt exceeding N9bn, threatening to suspend services starting Tuesday. This potential action could disrupt both domestic and international flight operations in Nigeria. AGHAN, representing five major ground handling firms including Skyway Handling Company of Nigeria Plc and Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc, stated that the airlines' failure to meet financial obligations is severely impacting their operational stability and creating financial strain. The association formally notified the Airline Operators of Nigeria AON of the possible service withdrawal in a letter dated April 21, 2026, with copies sent to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and other key officials. AGHAN emphasized that despite repeated attempts to engage airlines and recover debts, commitments have largely gone unmet. The association expressed regret for any inconvenience to passengers but indicated that drastic action might be necessary to ensure the continued viability of its members' operations if the debts remain unresolved. Efforts to obtain a response from the AON spokesperson, Prof Obiora Okonkwo, were unsuccessful.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Taiwo 'Esepo' Agbaje secured the WBA Africa lightweight title by defeating Tosin 'Sojar Boy' Osaigbovo via judges' decision after 10 rounds in Lagos. The highly anticipated bout, which followed pre-fight verbal exchanges between the two undefeated boxers, saw Agbaje display resilience throughout. Both fighters, Agbaje with an 18-0 record and Osaigbovo with 12 wins, went the distance in a keenly contested match. The victory marks a significant milestone in Agbaje's career, crowning him the new WBA Africa lightweight champion. The contest was promoted by De Lad’s Boxing and sanctioned by the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control.
Nigerian professional wrestler Isaac Odugbesan, known as Oba Femi in World Wrestling Entertainment, has detailed his journey from an Olympic medal hopeful in shot put to a WWE superstar. Earlier this month, Oba Femi defeated WWE veteran Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas in under five minutes. His victory involved dominating key moments, enduring Lesnar’s “F5,” and securing the win with a chokeslam and his finishing move, “Fall From Grace.” Oba Femi's rising profile is linked to his Nigerian background; he previously competed for the University of Lagos at the National University Games, winning individual honors in athletics before moving abroad in 2017. He continued track and field in the United States, winning the SEC Indoor Track and Field Championships in 2021 and 2022, and the outdoor title in 2020. By 2021, he joined WWE’s Next In Line initiative, which recruits collegiate athletes for professional wrestling. He stated that WWE contacted him via Instagram for a trial, and he signed with the company on December 8, 2021, after a tryout in August 2021.
The Nigeria Olympic Committee NOC has commended the Nigeria School Sport Federation NSSF for successfully organizing the 2nd National School Volleyball Championships, promising ongoing support for future events. The four-day tournament, held at the National Institute for Sports in Lagos, featured 28 teams from various states across Nigeria. Organized by the NSSF in collaboration with the Nigeria Volleyball Federation and backed by the Lagos State Sports Commission, the championships focused on grassroots sports development. Bayelsa and Bauchi states secured the championships, while Adamawa and Oyo states earned bronze medals. NOC President Engr. Habu Gumel praised the event as a platform for developing future athletes, noting the high quality of play and the potential for Nigerian athletes to compete in international games. NSSF President Olabisi Joseph expressed satisfaction with the tournament's success and indicated that the federation will work with the NVBF to identify top talents for the 2026 International School Sport Federation World School Volleyball Championship in China. The championships concluded on Friday, April 24, highlighting the potential of Nigeria's emerging volleyball talent.
Nigeria's U20 women's national team, the Falconets, have completed a three-week training camp in Abuja as they prepare for their FIFA U20 Women's World Cup qualifying match against Malawi. The team will travel to Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State, to host the first leg of the final qualifying round on Saturday, May 2. Head coach Moses Aduku expressed confidence in the team's readiness, highlighting their character, determination, and work on tactics, fitness, and cohesion. Team captain Joy Igbokwe called for Nigerian support, stating the team is prepared and focused on making the country proud. The Falconets aim for a strong first-leg advantage as they pursue qualification for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in Poland, scheduled for September 5–26. Nigeria has qualified for every edition of the tournament since 2002.