The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has successfully brokered a landmark agreement between major aviation unions and the concessionaire of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, resolving concerns surrounding the airport’s concession process.
At a high-level meeting convened in Abuja, the Minister engaged the leadership of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP) to address critical issues relating to workers’ welfare, job security, and the long-term sustainability of the airport under the proposed concession arrangement.
The meeting, conducted in an atmosphere of transparency and constructive dialogue, created an avenue for open discussions and careful consideration of all concerns raised by stakeholders.
Following extensive deliberations facilitated by the Minister, all parties reached a mutually beneficial resolution that protects the interests of aviation workers while aligning with the federal government’s agenda.
A major outcome of the engagement was the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the unions and the concessionaire. The agreement guarantees job security and preserves the employment status of all affected staff, ensuring that no worker will be unjustly displaced and that existing conditions of service will be maintained in accordance with agreed terms.
Commending the leadership of ATSSSAN, NUATE, and ANAP, the Minister praised their patriotism, maturity, and commitment to constructive engagement in the national interest.
“This administration believes strongly in dialogue, fairness, and inclusivity. Infrastructure development and workers’ welfare are not mutually exclusive. We will continue to ensure that every reform process is guided by compassion, equity, and national interest”, the Minister stated.
The resolution of issues surrounding the concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport represents a significant milestone in the ongoing transformation of Nigeria’s aviation sector. It reinforces the Ministry’s commitment to balancing private sector participation with the protection of public sector workers and strategic national assets.
The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development reiterates its dedication to sustained stakeholder engagement as it continues efforts to build a globally competitive, efficient, and sustainable aviation industry for Nigeria.