Permanent Secretary , Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata during his Opening remarks at the event.
By Chidi Ugwu
The Joint Consultative and Negotiating Council (JCNC), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, on Tuesday, 11th March 2026, celebrated the 12th Edition of the Aviation Workers Week and Awards Night with the theme “Synergy for Safety and Productivity: Management Labour Collaboration.” The event was held at Merit House, Abuja.
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The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata, commended the staff of the Ministry for their dedication and professionalism. He described them as intelligent, mature, and respectful, urging them to continue to work together in unity to move the aviation industry forward.
Margaret Oyinboade, Acting Head, Press and Public Affairs, in a statement said Dr. Kofarmata also advised staff to shun rumours while carrying out their responsibilities, noting that professionalism, efficiency, and effectiveness remain critical to sustaining progress in the aviation sector.
Speaking, the Director of Human Resources Management, Mr. Ejike Usibe, stated that the smooth operations within the Ministry are largely due to the cordial relationship between management and the union.
He emphasized that the aviation industry continues to thrive because necessary structures and cooperation are in place. He further encouraged the union to maintain openness, sincerity, and inclusiveness in its activities for the benefit of all members.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Joint Consultative and Negotiating Council, Comrade Hector Nnadi, appreciated participants for attending the event. He noted that the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Festus Keyamo, SAN, has consistently demonstrated commitment to strengthening collaboration with aviation unions through open communication and fair engagement with stakeholders.
Comrade Hector therefore encouraged staff to reciprocate the Minister’s commitment by supporting initiatives that promote growth and stability in the aviation industry. He further urged stakeholders to work collectively towards building a safer, more productive, and sustainable aviation sector.
He also acknowledged the leadership and contributions of the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata, describing him as a leader who demonstrated the human side of authority within the short period of service in the Ministry.
A panel discussion held during the event focused on the theme of the celebration, emphasizing the importance of continuous dialogue, safety consciousness, and strong collaboration between management and labour unions.
The Panelists stressed that staff should see themselves as key stakeholders in the aviation industry and work collectively to achieve shared goals, noting that
mutual respect, transparency, and interactive engagement between management and unions are essential for building synergy, which serves as a catalyst for improved productivity and sustainable development in the aviation sector.
