The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, has reiterated his strong commitment to unionism and the welfare of aviation workers.
The minister made this statement while delivering a keynote address at the 11th Edition of Aviation Workers’ Week and Award Night in Abuja.
The event, themed “The Role of Aviation Trade Unions in Galvanising Workers’ Support for the Attainment of Ministerial Mandates,” brought together key stakeholders, including heads of agencies under the ministry, aviation professionals and airline operators.
Represented by the permanent secretary of the ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, the minister emphasised that unionism should not oppose progress but rather advocate for it. He urged that a culture of dialogue is preferable, stating, “Jaw-jaw is always better than war-war.”
While receiving an award for his proactive approach to changing the narrative in the Nigerian aviation sector, Keyamo confirmed that President Bola Tinubu’s directive on the prompt payment of workers’ salaries is being effectively implemented. He encouraged staff to embrace the Civil Service Implementation Plan aimed at modernising the service and assured them of his unwavering support for fostering growth and development within the ministry and the aviation industry.
Director of human resources management, Bello Torankawa lauded the chairman of the Joint Consultative Negotiating Council (JCNC) for his resilience and dedication. He underscored the vital role of unions in any ministry by focusing on workers’ welfare and development and reiterated management’s support for the annual Aviation Workers’ Week initiative.
President of the Aviation Round Table, Air Commodore Ademola Ojuku, commended the JCNC committee for consistently uniting aviation professionals to drive progress in the industry.
In his welcome address, chairman of the Joint Consultative and Negotiating Council (JCNC), Comrade Hector Nnadi called for stronger collaboration between aviation trade unions and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to successfully implement ministerial mandates. He emphasised the critical role of trade unions in aligning workers’ interests with government policies to ensure the growth and sustainability of the aviation sector.
Hector also acknowledged the dedication of aviation workers who tirelessly maintain the safety, security, and efficiency of the sector. The event featured panel discussions on the theme “The Role of Aviation Trade Unions in Galvanizing Workers’ Support for the Attainment of Ministerial Mandates,” highlighting the importance of social dialogue, collaboration between unions and management, and enhanced capacity building through soft skills training.
The climax of the 11th edition of Aviation Workers Week was the award ceremony, which honoured individuals (staff) who distinguished themselves through dedication, hard work and integrity, as well as organisations such as Arik Airline and the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
