In compliance with the indefinite strike declared by organized labour, aviation unions have instructed their members to withdraw services across all airports in Nigeria. This directive will take effect from 12:00 am on Monday, June 3rd.
The unions involved include the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAP), and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE). The decision was made following an emergency meeting held on Sunday.
In a joint statement signed by Comrade Ocheme Aba, General Secretary of NUATE; Comrade Frances Akinjole, Deputy General Secretary of ATSSSAN; Comrade Abdul Rasaq Saidu, Secretary General of ANAP; and Comrade Olayinka Abioye, General Secretary of NAAPE, the unions directed all branches to comply with the strike action.
The unions’ directive is part of a broader industrial action led by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in protest against the hike in electricity tariffs and the unresolved negotiations over a new national minimum wage. This action is expected to significantly impact air travel and airport operations across the country, reflecting the widespread support for the strike within the aviation sector.
The Notice read, “In compliance with the directive from our labour labores-—Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria—we hereby inform the general public, aviation service providers, airline operators, aviation businesses and all aviation workers nationwide that starting from 0000hrs of June 3, 2024 all services at all Nigerian airports shall be fully withdrawn till further notice.”
“Being not oblivious of the fact that many international flights to Nigeria are already airborne, the strike action will commence at international terminals on 4th of June, 2024.”
“All aviation workers should recognize the seriousness of this struggle and comply unfailingly. All Branch officers of our unions shall ensure full compliance at all airports.”