The Ministry of Aviation has called on aviation unions to end the industrial action which has crippled activities at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja.
The ministry, in a statement by its spokesperson, Odutayo Oluseyi, said: “the strike is unnecessary as it will increase the hardship on our citizens, affect flight schedules, lead to economic losses and negatively impact on our rating globally.”
On the grievances prompting the strike action by the unions, the ministry said: “these are issues that should not lead to strike.
“It should be noted that the planned demolition of certain buildings obstructing the runway is in public interest and an administrative issue that can be sorted in-house. The unions should have met with management of agencies for alternative accommodation to all affected offices before going ahead with the strike.”
On the concession of airports and welfare of workers, the ministry said: “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.
“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 consequential adjustment of the minimum wage has been finalized and about to be paid anytime soon. We have always conveyed this information in the several conversations and meetings held with the unions.
Passengers Stranded As Aviation Workers Begin Strike
“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 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.”
But, speaking on behalf of the striking Aviation workers, the general secretary of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees, Sikiru Waheed, has threatened total shutdown of activities at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
According to him, the second day of the ongoing strike will be more effective than the first day, adding that the first day of the strike was just a warning to the public and the government that they were serious about their demands.
He said, “Day two of the strike would be more effective than what you are seeing here now because we only have some leverage today to serve as a warning to other people that are travelling.”
He also urged people who have plans to travel on Tuesday to shelve their plans, saying that the strike action will be a total shutdown.
“So people who need to travel tomorrow should please don’t book a flight for tomorrow because it is going to be a total shutdown, it is not going to be like today by 5:00 and we will be here to shut down everywhere,” Waheed declared.
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