The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has urged aviation industry unions to engage in constructive dialogue and support peaceful negotiations with the Federal Government regarding the proposed concession of certain airports. This appeal comes amid ongoing resistance from unions against the government’s plans to concession key airports across the country.
Despite assurances from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, that no jobs would be lost in the concession process, the unions remain skeptical. The unions opposing the move include the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), and the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE).
During a recent congress held at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, the unions expressed strong opposition to the concession documents issued by the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. Reports indicate that the documents excluded union representatives, contrary to an earlier agreement. In response, the unions issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to reverse its decision.
In a statement, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN, acknowledged the unions’ concerns. She highlighted that the unions had raised issues during the workers’ congress, including the lack of union representation in the airport concession committee and delays in implementing the negotiated adjustments to the new minimum wage. These concerns were reportedly presented to the minister during a meeting with aviation unions last week.
According to Orah, the minister has directed the immediate inclusion of union representatives in the concession committee to ensure transparency. He also emphasized that the unions would be kept fully informed as the concession process progresses. Additionally, Keyamo pledged to expedite the implementation of the new salary review for FAAN staff.
FAAN reiterated its commitment to fostering cordial relations with aviation unions, stating that continuous dialogue and mutual understanding remain the best approach to resolving industrial disputes. The agency also affirmed its dedication to upholding its core values while collaborating with the minister to address the unions’ grievances.
During last week’s congress, FAAN offices and gates were temporarily shut, preventing workers from entering the premises. Addressing the workers, NUATE President Ben Nnabue expressed disappointment, stating that the unions had learned of the government’s plans to proceed with airport concessions without their knowledge. He noted that while the minister had previously assured them there would be no concessions, the unions were surprised to find concession documents circulating from the ministry.
Similarly, ANAP President Adebayo Alale revealed that the minister had promised to resolve all labor-related issues before proceeding with the concession process. Alale disclosed that the concession process for Enugu Airport was nearing completion, with plans also underway for Port Harcourt and Kano airports.
The ongoing dispute highlights the tension between the government’s plans to modernize airport infrastructure through concessions and the unions’ concerns over transparency, job security, and fair labor practices. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders are calling for continued dialogue to ensure a resolution that balances the interests of all parties involved.
