The Federal Government on Monday urged the striking aviation workers to resume work, assuring that their demands especially the adjustment of the minimum wage would be paid soon.
Federal Government made the promise in a statement released by the spokesman for the Ministry of Aviation, Oluseyi Odutayo on Monday in Abuja
The statement expressed the ministry’s displeasure at the industrial action embarked on by the workers, saying the ministry had made efforts to address their demands.
He stressed that the decision of the workers would further increase hardship on Nigerians, affect flight schedules as well as lead to economic losses.
He asked the aggrieved workers to sheathe their swords, shelve their strike 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 go to improve infrastructure and make our airports economically viable as this is without loss of jobs,” the statement read
“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 consequential adjustment of the minimum wage has been finalized and about to be paid anytime soon. We have always conveyed this information in the several conversations and meetings held with the Unions.
“The Management of the Ministry of Aviation is open to continuous engagement with the Unions to improve their welfare. However, this can 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 view seriously any behaviour by any Union that is likely to lead to a breakdown of law and order at our airports.
“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.”
Aviation workers commenced their two-day warning strike with a protest on Monday, a situation that inevitably left many air passengers stranded.
The unions involved include National Union of Air Transport Employee (NUATE), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), and Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAP).