Aviation ministry pleas with workers to end strike

Babajide Williams

The Ministry of Aviation has asked workers who are on a two-day working strike to shelve the industrial action and resume work.

The ministry in a statement on Tuesday expressed displeasure at the ongoing warning strike by the aviation unions in spite of efforts at meeting the demands of the workers.

The statement read: “The strike is unnecessary as it will increase the hardship on our citizens, affect flight schedules, lead to economic losses, and negatively impact our rating globally.

“On the grievances prompting the strike by the Unions, these are issues that should not lead to a strike.

“It should be noted that the planned demolition of certain buildings obstructing the runway is in the public interest and an administrative issue that can be sorted in-house. The Unions should have met with the management of agencies for alternative accommodation to all affected offices before going ahead with the strike.

“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 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.”

The ministry as the unions notes also that if they are not already aware, the consequential adjustment of the minimum wage has been finalized and is about to be paid anytime soon. It added that the ministry has always conveyed the information in the several conversations and meetings held with the unions.

“The Management of the Ministry of Aviation is open to continuous engagement with the unions to improve their welfare. However, this can only be done in an atmosphere of peace and mutual respect.

“Let me reiterate that while we are appealing to the unions to sheath the sword, the management will view seriously any behavior by any Union that is likely to lead to a breakdown of law and order at our airports.

“The ministry wishes to appeal to the Unions to call off the strike and join hands with management to make the aviation industry a hub in Africa,” the #AviationNG stated.