FG Urges Aviation Unions to Abandon Planned Strike

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has made a public appeal to aviation unions to reconsider their planned strike.

The unions, including the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), and the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation Civil Service Technical and Recreation Services Employees (AUPCTRE), had threatened to halt operations on August 21, 2024.

This action was in response to the government's decision to deduct 50% of the internally generated revenues (IGR) from aviation agencies.

In a memo dated August 14, 2024, the unions expressed their grievances, highlighting the detrimental impact of these deductions on investment, maintenance of critical infrastructure, and overall operations of the agencies.

The affected agencies include the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), and Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).

Keyamo, addressing the issue, assured the workers' unions and other stakeholders that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is "very concerned about the improvement of the Aviation sector and will give their demands due consideration with the goal of finding a lasting solution that balances both the fiscal needs of the government and the operational requirements of the Aviation Agencies."

He further appealed for calm and industrial peace while the government works towards an amicable resolution.

The Minister emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring a conducive work environment and maintaining the highest standards of service delivery in the aviation sector.

He acknowledged the vital role of the aviation workforce in ensuring safety, efficiency, and smooth operation within the industry.

In his statement, Keyamo noted, "We understand the importance of the issues raised and recognize the vital role that our aviation workforce plays in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and smooth operation of the industry."

He reiterated the government's dedication to addressing the challenges in a manner that ensures the continued viability and sustainability of the sector.

The unions' planned strike serves as a protest to demand the cessation of the 50% revenue deduction, which they argue hinders the agencies' ability to maintain and upgrade critical infrastructure.

The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has committed to working assiduously towards resolving the matter and appreciates the patience and understanding of the aviation workers during this period.