Normalcy returns as ATSSSAN, NUATE suspend warning strike

FG approves payoffs of defunct NIG. Airways staff
Normalcy has returned to the Airports across Nigeria, following the prompt intervention of the Minister of labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige, the minister of State for aviation Hadi Sirika over proposed strike action given by the three Aviation Trade Unions that issued a 15-day ultimatum with effect from October 11, to the federal government.

In a meeting which was attended by heads of relevant aviation agencies, the leaders of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) and the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP- Aviation Sector) blamed their action on the lack of clear information of the reasons behind the federal government’s decision to concession the Airports.

The meeting which deliberated on all issues raised, particularly what the unions termed “ambiguities” and lack of transparency in the concessioning process, allayed fears that government’s objective would trigger job losses and compound the travails of the workers and retirees.

Federal Government negotiating team hence explained the good intentions of government, and all the steps taken so far, assured the unions of transparency and adequate representation in the exercise. They were further encouraged to participate actively in the two committees midwife the concessioning which are Project Steering Committee (PSC) and Project Delivery Team (PDT) as their membership was already guaranteed.

The unions subsequently expressed deep satisfaction at the development and agreed to convey same to their members with a view to withdrawing the ultimatum. They thanked the Hon. Minister of labour and Employment for providing the necessary atmosphere for the Social Dialogue in consonance with the ILO Convention for the protection of their interest.

Meanwhile, the federal government Wednesday, has approaved substantial amount of money, for the payment of bulk salaries of the workers of the defunct Nigerian Airways. Announcing this to state house correspondent shortly after FEC meeting Wednesday, the Minister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, stated that efforts to arrive at the approaval by the president was to ensure that justice is done.

He said that the payment has become necessary to enable a complete transformation process take place within the industry.

The disengaged workers since 2004 under former President Obasanjo, has sought ways of getting their entitlements from federal government.

Idu Jude, Abuja