By Atoyebi Nike
Nigeria’s aviation sector will continue normal operations this week after workers’ unions called off a planned nationwide strike scheduled to begin on Monday.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo confirmed the suspension in a statement on Sunday, saying the decision followed government intervention and constructive dialogue with union leaders.
The strike threat was initially issued in a joint statement on August 8 by the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), and the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUCPTRE). The unions had planned to withdraw services to press for improved remuneration and working conditions.
According to Keyamo, the unions have now agreed to suspend the action to enable further discussions with the government. “After our intervention, the planned strike due to commence tomorrow has been shelved. The unions issued a joint statement confirming the suspension,” he said.
The minister, who described his long-standing relationship with labor groups as an asset in resolving disputes, pledged to address the workers’ demands step by step. “By demonstrating good faith, we will resolve each of the outstanding issues that have been in the sector long before we assumed office,” he added.
