In a significant move to address the ongoing industrial action that has disrupted air travel across the country, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), held a high-level closed-door meeting today with representatives of major aviation unions in a bid to bring the nationwide strike to an end.
The strike, which began earlier this week, has led to widespread flight cancellations, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and impacting both domestic and international travel. The unions, which include the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), are demanding improved working conditions, wage adjustments, and resolution of long-standing welfare issues.
Minister Keyamo, who described the dialogue as “frank and constructive,” assured the unions of the government’s commitment to swiftly addressing their grievances. “We recognize the critical role aviation workers play in the growth and safety of Nigeria’s airspace. This meeting is a vital step towards restoring normalcy to our skies,” he stated.
Sources close to the negotiations disclosed that both parties discussed key demands, including salary harmonization, pension arrears, and better funding for aviation agencies. The minister reportedly requested a brief moratorium to allow the ministry to present a concrete plan to the Presidency for swift implementation.
While no formal agreement has been signed yet, union leaders have acknowledged the government's willingness to listen and pledged to consult with their members on the way forward. A follow-up meeting has been scheduled within the next 48 hours.