The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has successfully brokered a landmark agreement between aviation unions and the concessionaire handling the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, effectively resolving concerns surrounding the airport’s concession process.
The breakthrough followed a high-level meeting convened by the Minister with leaders 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).
The engagement created a platform for open and constructive discussions on workers’ welfare, job security, and the sustainability of the Enugu airport under private sector management.
Union leaders had previously raised concerns about potential job losses and changes to employment conditions following the concession arrangement.
After extensive deliberations, all parties reached a mutually beneficial resolution. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally signed between the unions and the concessionaire, guaranteeing job security and preservation of staff status for all affected workers.
The agreement ensures that no employee will be unjustly displaced and that existing conditions of service will be respected in accordance with agreed terms.
Commending the unions for their maturity and patriotism, Keyamo emphasized that the Federal Government remains committed to reforms that modernize aviation infrastructure without undermining workers’ rights.
“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.
According to the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Mr. Tunde Moshood, the Ministry will continue sustained engagement with stakeholders as it advances efforts to build a more competitive and sustainable aviation industry.
The resolution marks a significant milestone in the Federal Government’s aviation reform agenda, reinforcing confidence in the concession framework while safeguarding the interests of aviation workers.
