Following a planned protest by Aviation Unions schedule to hold on September 18, 2024 over deductions of 50 percent of internally generated revenue (IGR) of aviation agencies by the Federal Government, the Minister of aviation and aerospace development, Festus Keyamo, has pleaded for dialogue to avert the protest which would ground the flight operations nationwide.
In a tatement on Thursday, the Minister revealed that measures have been put in place to address the concerns raised by the unions workers.
According to Keyamo, ‘while we acknowledge the concerns raised by the unions within the aviation sector regarding the deduction of 50 percent of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) at source by the government, I want to assure all stakeholders that His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is looking into the concerns raised. 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.
‘We wish to assure the un
ions and all stakeholders that, we are fully aware of the situation and are working diligently to find a resolution. The government is committed to ensure that the aviation sector continues to operate efficiently and safely.’
In response to the concerns, the ministry has scheduled a meeting with the leadership of the unions on September 17, 2024, which will provide a platform to openly discuss the issues at hand and allow Mr. President, sufficient time to intervene and address the unions’ concerns comprehensively.
‘In light of this, we appeal to the unions to reconsider their planned peaceful protest on September 18, 2024, and create room for dialogue to take place. We believe that through constructive engagement, a mutually beneficial solution can be reached, ensuring the safety and sustainability of the aviation sector.’
Source: Voice of Nigeria