Chrys
The federal government has appealed to aviation workers to
cancel the ongoing strike action, promising that their demands will be met
soon.
Recall that the aviation workers commenced a strike on
Monday, blocking access roads to both the international and domestic wings of
the Murtala Muhammed Airports in Lagos.
Prior to Monday’s event, the unions had issued a warning on
their plans to embark on a two-day strike over failure of the federal
government to respond to certain requests, which includes the improvement of
working conditions and entitlements.
Speaking in a statement on Monday, Oluseyi Odutayo, head of
press and public relations of the ministry of aviation, said before commencing
the strike, the unions should have met with the management of agencies for
alternative accommodation to all affected offices.
He said the strike was unnecessary as it will increase the
hardship “on our citizens, affect flight schedules, lead to economic losses and
negatively impact our rating globally”.
Odutayo asked the aggrieved workers to sheathe their swords
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 improve infrastructure and make our
airports economically viable as this is without loss of jobs,” the spokesperson
said.
“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 the consequential adjustment of the minimum wage has been finalised and is
about to be paid anytime soon. We have always conveyed this information in the
several conversations and meetings held with the unions.”
Odutayo said the management of the ministry of aviation is
open to continuous engagement with the unions to improve their welfare.
But he said this could 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 seriously view any behaviour by any union that is likely to lead to a
breakdown of law and order at our airports,” he said.
“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.”
