APA – Lagos (Nigeria)
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation Senator Hadi Sirika has appealed to aviation workers to end their ongoing warning strike.
In the statement issued by Mr Odutayo Oluseyi, Head, Press and Public Affairs in the Ministry, the Minister urged the unions to call off the strike and join hands with the ministry to make Nigeria’s aviation industry a hub in Africa.
He said that the ministry had intensified efforts to meet the demands of the workers and expressed displeasure at the ongoing warning strike
The strike, according to the Minister, is unnecessary as it will only increase hardship to citizens, affect flight schedules, lead to economic losses, and negatively impact the country’s global rating.
He stated that the grievances prompting the strike by the unions ought not to have led to strike action. .
“It should be noted that the planned demolition of certain buildings obstructing the runway is in public interest and an administrative issue that can be sorted in-house.
“The Unions should have met with management of Agencies for alternative accommodation to all affected offices before going ahead with the strike.
“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, concession is the way to go to improve infrastructure and make the nation`s airports economically viable without loss of jobs “On the conditions of Service in some of the agencies, the minister said the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission “is already carrying out assessments and will soon conclude,” he said
He assured that the Management of the Ministry of Aviation is open to continuous engagement with the unions to improve their welfare.
The Minister, however, warned that the Management will view seriously any behaviour by any union that is likely to lead to breakdown of law and order at the airports.
GIK/APA
Nigeria’s Aviation Minister appeals to workers to call off 2-day warning strike
