The ongoing two-day warning strike by the aviation union has prompted the Minister of Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika to call for an end to the strike.
The minister expressed disappointment at the strike despite efforts to meet the demands of the workers.
In a statement released by the head of press and public affairs, Odutayo Oluseyi, Sirika emphasised that the strike would increase the hardship on citizens, affect flight schedules, lead to economic losses and negatively impact the country’s global rating.
According to Sirika, the planned demolition of certain buildings obstructing the runway is an administrative issue that can be sorted in-house, and the union should have met with the management of agencies for alternative accommodation before going ahead with the strike.
Also, Sirika noted that the concession of airports is a global practice and for the aviation industry in Nigeria to be the hub in Africa, the concession is the way to make airports economically viable without loss of jobs.
Concerning the conditions of service in some of the agencies, the minister disclosed that the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) is already carrying out assessments and will soon conclude. He assured the union of the ministry’s open-door policy for continuous engagement to improve their welfare.
Sirika urged the union to work with the management to make the aviation industry a hub in Africa. He also warned that any behaviour by any union that is likely to lead to a breakdown of law and order at the airports would be viewed seriously by the management.
In conclusion, the aviation minister reiterated his appeal to the union to end the strike and join hands with the management to improve the aviation industry.
