The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has urged aviation unions to reconsider their planned protest, scheduled for September 18, 2024, and instead, engage in dialogue to resolve their concerns.
The unions have announced the protest in response to the Federal Government’s decision to deduct 50% of the internally generated revenue (IGR) of aviation agencies.
In a press statement released on Thursday, Keyamo acknowledged the concerns raised by the unions regarding the financial strain caused by the deductions, which they argue affect the sector’s ability to meet critical safety and operational needs.
He assured stakeholders that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is aware of the situation and is taking steps to address it.
‘We understand the strain this has placed on the sector’s ability to address critical safety and operational needs, and we take these concerns very seriously,’ Keyamo said.
The minister emphasised that the government is working diligently to find a resolution that e
nsures the aviation sector remains efficient and safe. To this end, a meeting has been scheduled with union leaders for September 17, 2024, to provide an open platform for discussing the issues.
‘In light of this, we appeal to the unions to reconsider their planned peaceful protest and create room for dialogue to take place,’ Keyamo added, expressing optimism that a constructive engagement could lead to a mutually beneficial solution.
The unions, which represent workers across the aviation sector, have yet to formally respond to the minister’s appeal. However, the scheduled dialogue on September 17 will serve as a critical juncture in addressing their grievances.
Source: Voice of Nigeria