The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has successfully mediated an agreement between aviation unions and a concessionaire over the proposed concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, resolving weeks of tension surrounding workers’ welfare and job security.
The high-level meeting, held in Abuja on Tuesday, brought together leaders of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, the National Union of Air Transport Employees, and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals to deliberate on concerns linked to the concession arrangement for the Enugu-based airport.
After what officials described as extensive and constructive deliberations, all parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding guaranteeing job security and preservation of employment status for staff affected by the concession process. The pact stipulates that no worker will be unjustly displaced and that existing conditions of service will be respected under agreed terms.
The Minister praised union leaders for their “maturity, patriotism, and commitment to constructive engagement,” stressing that the administration is determined to modernise infrastructure without sacrificing workers’ rights. He noted that reforms must be driven by fairness and inclusivity, emphasising that development and employee welfare are not mutually exclusive goals.
Reform and Infrastructure Agenda
The resolution is viewed as a milestone in ongoing efforts by the Federal Government of Nigeria to revitalise aviation infrastructure through public-private partnerships.
Industry observers say concessions are increasingly being adopted as a strategy to improve efficiency, attract investment, and upgrade ageing airport facilities across the country.
Officials of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development described the agreement as evidence of government’s commitment to balancing private sector participation with protection of public-sector employees and national assets.
According to ministry spokesperson Tunde Moshood, the government will sustain consultations with unions and other stakeholders as reforms progress, noting that dialogue remains central to building a globally competitive aviation industry.
Analysts say the settlement not only stabilises labour relations at the Enugu airport but also sends a broader signal that concession programmes can proceed without triggering industrial unrest when workers’ concerns are directly addressed.
The Enugu facility, one of Nigeria’s key international gateways in the South-East, is expected to benefit from renewed investor confidence following the accord, which stakeholders believe could accelerate upgrades, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen regional connectivity.
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