Nigerian Airways Ex-workers Demand Payment Of N36bn Severance, Lament Rising Deaths

Former employees and pensioners of the defunct Nigerian Airways have raised alarm over what they described as a growing wave of deaths and deteriorating health conditions among their members, blaming the situation on the non-payment of the ₦36 billion severance package approved by Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Addressing journalists in a press briefing on Thursday, the aggrieved ex-workers said nearly a year after the presidential approval was granted in June 2025, the payment is yet to be implemented, leaving thousands of retirees in severe hardship.

Speaking on behalf of the group, ex-pilot of Nigerian Airways, Prekeme Porbemi, said the delay has worsened the suffering of over 5,000 former staff and pensioners of the once-thriving national carrier, Nigerian Airways, which was liquidated in 2004.

They recalled that following the airline’s liquidation, an agreement was reached between aviation unions and the Federal Government to pay a one-off severance package equivalent to 25 years of each worker’s salary, totaling N78 billion.

However, after partial payments by successive administrations, an outstanding balance of about N36 billion remains unpaid.

According to them, despite sustained efforts by unions, stakeholders, and the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the issue has lingered unresolved.

The ex-workers expressed deep concern that many beneficiaries, now aged between 65 and 101 years, are grappling with age-related illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis, compounded by rising living costs and limited access to healthcare.

“The consequence of this prolonged delay has been devastating,” the group said. “Many of our members are living in extreme hardship, unable to afford basic needs, including food and medical care.”

They further lamented that the number of avoidable deaths among their colleagues continues to rise, describing the situation as a humanitarian crisis that requires urgent government intervention.

While acknowledging the approval granted by President Tinubu, which they said rekindled hope among affected families, the group expressed disappointment that the funds have yet to be disbursed.

“We therefore respectfully appeal through this media briefing to all relevant authorities and well-meaning Nigerians to help draw urgent attention to this humanitarian situation,” they said.

They urged the appropriate government agencies to expedite the release and payment of the approved funds, stressing that the matter goes beyond financial obligation.

“This is not merely a financial obligation, it is a matter of justice, compassion, and national conscience. These men and women served Nigeria faithfully in their youth and deserve dignity and relief in the evening of their lives,” the statement added.

The ex-workers, however, expressed hope that the Federal Government would act swiftly to ensure that the payment is made without further delay, warning that continued inaction could lead to more avoidable deaths among their ranks.