In compliance with the indefinite strike declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), aviation unions have directed members to withdraw services across airports in Nigeria.
The withdrawal would take effect on Monday, June 3rd, the unions declared. The unions that joined the strike include the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAP), and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE). The leadership of the unions decided after an emergency meeting held on Sunday, June 2.
The unions, in a joint statement signed by Comrade Ocheme Aba, general secretary of NUATE, directed all branches to comply. Meanwhile, organized labour declared an indefinite strike over the federal government’s inability to meet their demands and pay N494,000 as the new minimum wage. The Notice read:
“In compliance with the directive from our labour labores-—Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria—we hereby inform the general public, aviation service providers, airline operators, aviation businesses and all aviation workers nationwide that starting from 0000hrs of June 3, 2024, all services at all Nigerian airports shall be fully withdrawn till further notice. “Not oblivious that many international flights to Nigeria are already airborne, the strike will commence at international terminals on the 4th of June, 2024. “All aviation workers should recognize the seriousness of this struggle and comply unfailingly. All Branch officers of our unions shall ensure full compliance at all airports.”
The labour unions confirmed their decision to proceed with the strike, which threatens to cripple economic activities in the country. The labour unions said they would meet to discuss the National Assembly leadership’s appeal to suspend the strike and allow further dialogue.