Unions representing workers in Nigeria’s aviation sector are gearing up for a nationwide protest scheduled for September 18, 2024, to demand an end to the Federal Government’s 50% deductions from the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of key aviation agencies.
The unions argue that these deductions are threatening the viability of critical agencies such as the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).
In a statement titled “Save Aviation from Collapse – Notice of Nationwide Protest”, the unions, including the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), and National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), criticized the government’s decision to continue withholding half of the agencies’ revenues.
They emphasized that these agencies are cost-recovery organizations, not profit-driven entities, and are struggling to operate under the current financial strain.
The unions warned that essential safety operations are at risk of being compromised, with some activities already grinding to a halt due to the financial impact of the deductions.
Despite multiple efforts to engage the government, including an ultimatum to the Minister of Aviation that expired in August, no resolution has been reached.
“We want to make it clear that the aviation unions will not be held responsible if the industry becomes dysfunctional due to financial incapacity caused by these deductions,” the unions stated.
As a result, all aviation workers across the country, including state councils, youth councils, women commissions, and union branches, have been directed to fully mobilize for the peaceful protest.
Should the protest fail to yield results, the unions have hinted at further actions, the details of which will be communicated in due course.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo is appealing to Aviation Unions to Postpone the Planned Protest slated for 18th of this month.
While acknowledging the unions’ concerns, in a statement, reassured them that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is actively addressing the issue.
The minister emphasized that the government understands the strain the revenue cuts have placed on the sector, particularly in meeting critical safety and operational demands.
He stressed that through constructive engagement, a mutually beneficial solution could be achieved, safeguarding both the safety and sustainability of the aviation sector.
To this end, he said, a meeting has been scheduled between the Ministry of Aviation and union leaders for September 17, 2024, aimed at providing an opportunity for open dialogue, and allow the president ample time to intervene and find a comprehensive solution to the unions’ grievances.
“We thank the unions for their patience and understanding, and we assure them that their concerns are being taken seriously,” the minister said, emphasizing that the government is committed to addressing the situation through dialogue.
