UNIONS IN THE NIGERIAN AVIATION INDUSTRY PUT ON HOLD THEIR PLANNED NATIONWIDE PEACEFUL PROTEST 17-09-24
By Sadiq Aminu Unions in the Nigerian aviation industry have put on hold their planned nationwide peaceful protest, scheduled for September 18, 2024, amidst ongoing discussions with higher authorities.
The announcement of the suspension is contained in a statement made available to newsmen by the General Secretary, National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, NAAPE, Comrade Olayinka Abioye.
The protest, which was initially announced over the weekend, was intended to express the unions’ discontent over the 50% deductions of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) by the Federal Government.
The unions, comprising professional bodies in the industry, had issued a joint statement highlighting the severe impact of the revenue cuts on the operations of aviation agencies, compromising safety standards and overall efficiency of the sector.
The unions had stressed that the deductions were hindering the ability of aviation agencies to procure necessary equipment, maintain facilities, and train personnel, ultimately leading to financial constraints and negative consequences for the sector.
In response to the planned protest, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, issued a statement urging the unions to postpone the protest, scheduled for tomorrow.
While acknowledging the unions’ concerns, Mr. Keyamo reassured them that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is actively addressing the issue.
The minister emphasized that the government understands the strain the revenue cuts have placed on the sector, particularly in meeting critical safety and operational demands.
He stressed that through constructive engagement, a mutually beneficial solution could be achieved, safeguarding both the safety and sustainability of the aviation sector.
As the situation unfolds, the aviation industry remains hopeful that a mutually beneficial agreement will be reached, ensuring the continued safety and efficiency of the sector.