By Itohan Abara-Laserian
ABUJA - The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, has tasked aviation unions to prioritise problem-solving dialogues in engagements with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and operators.
Keyamo made the remarks at the National Administrative Council (NAC)/ National Executive Council (NEC) of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), held on Wednesday in Abuja.
Keyamo was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr Emmanuel Meribole.
According to the minister, effective unionism can act as a stabilising force within a struggling economy, especially within critical sectors such as aviation.
He also said that for unions like NAAPE, the focus should be on pursuing constructive engagement with stakeholders, advancing professional development and enhancing safety standards.
He promised that, in partnership with unions, the Ministry of Aviation is committed to providing support for training initiatives that align with global standards.
The Minister also opined that it was in the nation’s best interest to foster a highly skilled workforce, hence the demand for expertise of pilots and engineers.
He also said that unionism should not compromise on safety because the lives of millions depend on the reliability and excellence of our pilots and engineers.
“By working closely with regulatory authorities, unions can advocate for the maintenance of aircraft and the highest safety standards, regardless of economic conditions.
“Safety is a non-negotiable element of the aviation industry, and it must always be at the forefront of our operations.
Advocating for collaborations, Keyamo said: “Rather than viewing these challenges as adversarial, unions and management should adopt a problem-solving mindset.
“By working together to find innovative solutions, such as flexible work arrangements, cost-saving initiatives, and shared revenue incentives—unions can help prevent layoffs and business closures.
“This approach not only safeguard jobs but also strengthens the foundations of the aviation sector, ensuring that we can weather economic downturns and prepare for a future upswing”
“The Ministry of Aviation recognizes the critical role of this sector and remains steadfast in its commitment to address the challenges that impact its growth and sustainability.
“We are working on policies that aim to create a more enabling environment for investment, infrastructure development, and workforce training.
“Efforts are underway to strengthen our airports, improve navigation systems, and support airline operators with streamlined regulatory processes,” he said.
The Chairman of the occasion and Acting Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo said that the best way for every economy to succeed is by multisectoral collaborations.
Najomo was represented by the NCAA Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Michael Achimugu.
He stated that for balance in the industry, the unions must have collective bargaining power of the workers.
Commending NAAPE, the D-G said: “I commend you for your awesome jobs you have done on your members. I assure you that, under Najomo’s watch, NCAA is experiencing a whole new trajectory.
“The level of NCAA’s collaboration with the unions has been exemplary and we stand with the union. We know the value of what you do. Do not lose your aluta spirit or sell your members out,” he said.
Meanwhile, in his welcome address, the President of NAAPE, Comrade Abednego Galadima said the event was organised to sensitise stakeholders on the need for a robust management/employer relations.
Galadima stated that the current economic downturn currently faced in the country was not perculia to Nigeria as there was job loss, inflation beseeching most countries.
Canvassing for social dialogue amongst management and employees he said: “Social dialogue should be topmost in the list of management and employees.
“It is very good because it provides opportunities, creates an avenue to resolve issues in a roundtable manner. Productivity is increased, there is synergy and profit is maximized when there is social dialogue,” he said.
The NAAPE president also identified the challenges faced in the industry as climate change, high cost of aviation fuel among others.
He also called on the Federal Government to include pilots in investigating panels of air accidents.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event had as its theme: “The Imperative of Unionism in a Struggling Economy. "
The event had in attendance aviation stakeholders, Nigeria Air Traffic Controllers Association; Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals; Nigerian Aviation Fire and Safety Association among others.
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