The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has made a public appeal for workers’ unions within the ministry to postpone their planned industrial action. This request comes as a response to the unions’ recent announcement of a strike and nationwide protests, scheduled to begin on August 21, 2024.
According to a letter dated August 14, 2024, and titled “Save Aviation From Collapse,” the workers’ decision to strike stems from dissatisfaction over ongoing financial issues within the aviation sector. Specifically, the letter highlighted that 50 percent of the internally generated revenue from key aviation agencies is being deducted, which has caused significant concern among the workforce.
In his statement, Keyamo expressed an understanding of the workers’ frustrations and the gravity of their concerns. He posted the appeal on his official X account on Friday, urging the workers to remain calm and to maintain industrial peace while the government works diligently to address the issue. Keyamo emphasized that the Ministry of Aviation values the workers’ patience and understanding during this challenging period.
The Minister reiterated the critical role that aviation workers play in maintaining the safety, efficiency, and smooth operation of the industry. He assured them that the Ministry is committed to resolving the financial challenges facing the sector in a way that supports both its long-term viability and high standards of service.
Furthermore, Keyamo acknowledged the importance of a conducive work environment and urged the workers to continue their dedication to ensuring that the aviation sector operates smoothly. He conveyed that the Ministry is aware of the significance of the issues raised by the unions and is working hard to find a balanced solution.
Keyamo also emphasized that President Bola Tinubu is deeply concerned about the state of the aviation sector. He assured the unions and other stakeholders that the President will give careful consideration to their demands. The goal is to find a lasting solution that meets the fiscal needs of the government while addressing the operational requirements of the aviation agencies.
The Minister’s appeal is aimed at preventing the disruption that a strike could cause to the aviation industry, which is crucial for national and international transportation. By seeking to resolve the issue through dialogue and negotiation, Keyamo hopes to ensure that the sector remains operational and continues to meet high service standards, ultimately benefiting both the workers and the public.
