Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb, UK, has reiterated his commitment to unionism and aviation workers’ welfare, emphasising the importance of dialogue in driving progress. Speaking at the 11th Edition of Aviation Workers’ Week and Award Night in Abuja on 25 February 2025, Keyamo, represented by Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, highlighted that constructive engagement between trade unions and government is essential for sectoral growth.
The event, themed “The Role of Aviation Trade Unions in Galvanising Workers’ Support for the Attainment of Ministerial Mandates,” brought together key aviation stakeholders, including heads of agencies, airline operators, and sector professionals.
Keyamo received an award for his proactive leadership in transforming Nigeria’s aviation sector. He assured workers of prompt salary payments, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive, and urged staff to embrace the Civil Service Implementation Plan to modernise operations.
Industry leaders, including Air Commodore Ademola Onitiju, President of the Aviation Round Table, praised the efforts of the Joint Consultative Negotiating Council (JCNC) in uniting aviation professionals. JCNC Chairman, Comrade Hector Nnadi, called for stronger collaboration between unions and the Ministry to align workers’ interests with government policies.
The event also featured panel discussions on enhancing union-management collaboration, capacity building, and skills development. The award ceremony recognised outstanding individuals and organisations, including Arik Air and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, for their contributions to the industry.
