Aviation worker groups in Nigeria are planning to protest at all airports on Wednesday, August 21, 2024. They are unhappy because the government has decided to cut the amount of money that aviation agencies make by 50%, which they believe is hurting the industry.
The participating unions in this demonstration include the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSAN), National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), and Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Services Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCCSTRSE).
In a message dated August 14, 2024, the worker groups expressed worry that important safety work at agencies like the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET), Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), and Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) is being seriously affected by the decrease in revenue.
The unions pointed out that these agencies are meant to cover their costs, not make profits, and operating with only half of their usual income is not sustainable.
They cautioned that if the deductions continue, the aviation industry could face serious problems, including safety risks and operational difficulties.As a result of the upcoming protests, there may be many flight cancellations and delays since aviation employees are likely to join the demonstrations.
The unions have urged all their members, including state branches, women’s groups, youth councils, and local divisions across the country, to organize and ensure that everyone follows the protest instructions.
The unions have emphasized that they will not take responsibility if the aviation sector experiences disruptions because of the reduced funds. They are urging the government to rethink its decision to prevent a possible emergency.
