Minister Keyamo urges Nigeria aviation workers to avoid protest plans due to 50% revenue reduction

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has called on aviation workers to delay their planned nationwide protest against the 50% revenue cut from aviation agencies by the Nigerian government.

In a statement issued on Friday, Keyamo responded to the unions’ announcement of protests against President Bola Tinubu’s policy. Workers from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), and the National Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) had announced plans for peaceful demonstrations at airports across Nigeria on August 21, 2024.

The protests are intended to challenge the 50% revenue deduction, which workers argue jeopardizes their operational efficiency and financial stability. The joint statement announcing the protests was signed by leaders from various unions, including NUATE, ANAP, AUPCTRE, ATSSSAN, and NAAPE.

Keyamo acknowledged the concerns raised by the workers, noting the potential negative impact on investment, infrastructure maintenance, and overall agency operations. He assured that the Ministry of Aviation is committed to addressing these issues while maintaining service standards.

The Minister also emphasized that President Tinubu is concerned about the sector’s improvement and will carefully consider the workers’ demands. Keyamo urged workers to remain calm and patient as the government seeks a resolution that balances fiscal needs with operational requirements. The Ministry appreciates the workers’ dedication and is committed to providing a supportive work environment.