By Chidi Ugwu
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has reaffirmed his steadfast commitment to unionism and the welfare of aviation workers.
The Minister, made this statement while delivering a keynote address at the 11th Edition of Aviation Workers’ Week and Award Night in Abuja.
The event, with the theme: “The Role of Aviation Trade Unions in Galvanizing Workers’ Support for the Attainment of Ministerial Mandates.” brought together key stakeholders, including heads of agencies under the ministry, various aviation sector professionals, and airlines operators.
A statement on Wednesday said represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, the Minister emphasized that unionism should not be antagonistic to progress but a protagonist for it.
He urged that a culture of dialogue is always better “JAW-JAW is always better than WAR-WAR”, he said.
Keyamo, while receiving an award in recognition of his proactive approach to changing the narrative in the Nigerian Aviation sector said the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on prompt payment of workers salary, is effectively in place.
He encouraged staff to embrace the Civil Service Implementation Plan, which is aimed at modernizing the Service.
He assured them of his unwavering support in fostering growth and development within the ministry and the aviation industry.
Director of Human Resources Management, Bello Sani Torankawa, lauded the chairman of Joint Consultative Negotiating Council (JCNC) for his resilience and dedication.
He emphasized that unions play a vital role in any ministry by focusing on workers welfare and development, and reiterated management’s support for the annual Aviation Workers’ Week initiative.
Air Commodore Ademola Ojuku, President of the Aviation Round Table, in his good will message, commended the JCNC committee for her consistent effort in uniting aviation professionals annually to drive the industry’s progress.
While delivering his welcome address, Chairman, Joint Consultative and Negotiating Council (JCNC), Comrade, Hector Nnadi, called on aviation trade unions to strengthen collaboration with the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to drive the successful implementation of ministerial mandates.
He highlighted the critical role of trade unions in aligning workers’ interests with government policies to ensure the growth and sustainability of the aviation sector.
Comrade Hector commended the dedication of aviation workers who work tirelessly to maintain the safety, security, and efficiency of the sector.
The event also featured panel discussions centered on the theme “The Role of Aviation Trade Unions in Galvanizing Workers’ Support for Attainment of Ministerial Mandates,” highlighting the critical need for social dialogue, collaboration between unions and management, and enhanced capacity building through soft skills training.
The climax of the 11th edition of the Aviation Workers Week was the Award ceremony presented in categories, to individuals (Staff) who have distinguished themselves through dedication, hard work, honesty e.t.c, organizations such as Arik Airline and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
