‘Demands will be addressed soon’ — FG asks aviation workers to cancel strike

The federal government has appealed to aviation workers to cancel the ongoing strike action, promising that their demands will be met soon.

TheCable had reported that the aviation workers commenced a strike on Monday, blocking access roads to both the international and domestic wings of the Murtala Muhammed Airports in Lagos.

Prior to Monday’s event, the unions had issued a warning on their plans to embark on a two-day strike over failure of the federal government to respond to certain requests, which includes the improvement of working conditions and entitlements.

Speaking in a statement on Monday, Oluseyi Odutayo, head of press and public relations of the ministry of aviation, said before commencing the strike, the unions should have met with the management of agencies for alternative accommodation to all affected offices.

He said the strike was unnecessary as it will increase the hardship “on our citizens, affect flight schedules, lead to economic losses and negatively impact our rating globally”.

Odutayo asked the aggrieved workers to sheathe their swords and contribute their quota to make the country’s aviation industry the hub of Africa.

“On the concession of airports, 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 improve infrastructure and make our airports economically viable as this is without loss of jobs,” the spokesperson said.

“On conditions of service in some of the agencies, it is a work in progress. 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 the consequential adjustment of the minimum wage has been finalised and is about to be paid anytime soon. We have always conveyed this information in the several conversations and meetings held with the unions.”

Odutayo said the management of the ministry of aviation is open to continuous engagement with the unions to improve their welfare.

But he said this could 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 seriously view any behaviour by any union that is likely to lead to a breakdown of law and order at our airports,” he said.

“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.”