The Ministry of Aviation on behalf of the Federal Government has made a strong request to the aviation unions to terminate their strike, which has severely disrupted air travel throughout the nation.
The FG also voiced its concern with the aviation unions’ ongoing warning strike despite efforts to accomodate the workers’ requests.
Odutayo Oluseyi, the ministry’s head of press and public relations, stated in a statement that the strike is pointless since it will make life more difficult for “our citizens, affect flight schedules, result in economic losses, and negatively impact our rating globally.”
Oluseyi, who spoke on behalf of the Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, said the grievances prompting the strike by the unions are issues that should not lead to a strike.
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She continued by saying that the planned destruction of some structures blocking the runway is in the public interest and a matter of internal administration.
The statement also said that before starting the strike, the unions should have consulted with agency management about finding other workspace for all impacted offices.
The statement read;
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 Unions should also note if they are not already aware, that the consequential adjustment of the minimum wage has been finalised and is about to be paid anytime soon. We have always conveyed this 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.
It added;
Let me reiterate that while we are appealing to the Unions to sheath the sword, the Management will seriously view any behaviour 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.
