LAGOS – Aviation unions have described as an aberration attempt by organisations in the sector, especially the airline sub-sector from joining the union of their choice in the sector.
The unions warned that if such conduct continues by their employers, they may be compelled to disrupt operations of some of the operators in the sector.
The unions under the aegis of Joint Aviation Trade Unions’ Forum (JATUF), gave the warning on Thursday in Lagos, during the second edition of its Annual Strategic Aviation Trade Unions’ Leadership Conference with the theme: ‘Synergy for Safety & Productivity Management-Labour Collaboration.’
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JATUF comprises all the aviation unions in the Nigerian aviation industry like the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Air Transport Senior Staff Services Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP) and National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE).
Speaking in his goodwill message, Comrade Ben Nnabue, President of NUATE, insisted that it was an aberration for workers in the sector to be denied their rights to join any unions of their choice.
He lamented that while airline operators are members of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), the same operators stopped their employees from joining the unions.
Nnabue, explained that while the unions were willing to partner with the operators for the development of the sector, most of them refused blatantly to work with them for the growth of the industry.
He said: “It is an aberration for someone to use his freedom to associate as an airline operator under AON, but still go ahead to stop others from doing so.
“We know what to do, but we have been dialoguing with them collectively.”
Also, Mr. Illitrus Ahmadu, the President of ATSSSAN, in his address, observed that the industry was facing numerous challenges.
According to him, some of the challenges were the serial abuse of organisations in the sector from joining the unions of their choice.
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He declared that all the unions in the industry were registered and recognised by the laws, wondering why the airlines were unwilling to allow their employees to join the unions.
He added: “Sadly, some of these airlines terminate the appointment of their workers without any offence.
“If you have been following the trends in the industry, you will notice that we have mellowed down to collaborate with industry employers. Membership of the union is voluntary. You can elect to join and pull out at any time, but it must be in accordance with the laws of the land.”
Besides, Engr. Abednego Galadima, President, NAAPE, explained that the essence of unionism was not to pull down any organization, but to partner them to grow their businesses.
He reiterated that the unions would continue to partner and synergise with employers to move the industry forward.
“Unions are not here to destroy businesses; they are meant to build them,” Galadinma stated.
Also, Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, in his goodwill message, commended the forum for promoting collaboration within the industry.
Mr. Henry Agbebire, Director of Special Duties, FAAN, who represented Keyamo, acknowledged the vital role that aviation unions play in maintaining workforce morale, advocating for best practices, and ensuring smooth operations across the sector.
“I am committed to strengthening our collaboration with aviation unions. Our collective efforts have already yielded positive outcomes, and I am proud of the constructive relationships we have built so far.”
Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), reiterated that safety and productivity depended on the combined efforts of both management and labour.
Represented by Debola Agunbiade, Director of Commercial and Business Development, Kuku assured the forum that FAAN would continue to support initiatives that promote worker well-being and enhance industry performance.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to working closely with aviation unions to build a culture of excellence, efficiency, and safety,” Agunbiade said.
