Aviation workers made good their threat on Monday by withdrawing services from airports nationwide which caused a near chaos situation in some airports especially at Murtala Muhammed International Airport Lagos, and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja. This is despite a statement by the Ministry of Aviation on Monday, pleading with the striking workers to suspend the industrial action that led to many air passengers across the country being stranded. Recall that vigil360 reported on Monday that Aviation unions have insisted on executing the two-day warning strike proposed last week which will result in shutting down of airports across Nigeria. The industrial action on Monday April 17, is premised on the alleged non-release of the union’s reviewed Condition of Service negotiated with four aviation agencies over seven years in addition to the planned demolition of Lagos offices of some agencies. The development could leave many air passengers stranded in Abuja, Lagos, and other airports in the country.
A statement by the Head, Press and Public Relations of the Aviation ministry, Odutayo Oluseyi, noted that the strike was unnecessary as it will increase the hardship on our citizens, affect flight schedules, lead to economic losses and negatively impact the country’s global rating.
Oluseyi, who spoke on behalf of the Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, said the grievances prompting the strike by the unions, were issues that should not lead to a strike.
He said the consequential adjustment of the minimum wage has been finalized, and about to be paid any time soon. We have always conveyed the information in the several conservations and meetings held with the unions.
He added the planned demolition of certain buildings obstructing the runway was in the public interest and an administrative issue that can be sorted in-house.
The statement further noted that the unions should have met with the management of agencies for alternative accommodation to all affected offices before going ahead with the strike.
The statement reads in part,” On the concession of airports, the unions are aware of global practices and for the aviation industry in Nigeria to be the hub in Africa, the concession is the way to go to improve infrastructure and make our airports economically viable as this is without loss of jobs.
”On the conditions of service in some of the agencies, it is a work in progress. The National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission is already carrying out assessments and will soon conclude.”
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