The President of the Air Transport Senior Staff Services Association of Nigeria, Mr John Ogbe, has called on aviation industry stakeholders to deepen collaboration with workers’ unions in order to guarantee uninterrupted operations and sustained growth across the sector.
Ogbe made the appeal during a courtesy visit by the union’s National Executive Council to the management of the Nigeria Aviation Handling Company Plc (Nahco), where he emphasised the importance of constructive engagement between employers and organised labour.
He noted that ATSSSAN, which largely comprises senior management personnel, approaches industrial relations with caution and responsibility, stressing that the union remains committed to initiatives that promote the stability and expansion of aviation businesses.
Describing workers as critical stakeholders in the production chain, Ogbe maintained that unions should be seen as partners rather than adversaries. He underscored that effective collaboration would dispel the long-standing perception that unions are primarily disruptive forces.
“We want to support businesses. Our stand is fundamentally collaborative,” Ogbe said. “As senior staff, we strive to understand management perspectives. We also recognise the need to avoid over-unionisation that could stifle business operations. It is about striking the right balance.”
The ATSSSAN President further urged aviation companies to improve staff welfare, citing the prevailing economic challenges affecting Nigerian workers. According to him, the persistent depreciation of the national currency has significantly eroded purchasing power, making wage adjustments imperative.
He assured Nahco management of the union’s readiness to engage in dialogue whenever issues arise, adding that the union’s local branches are well-positioned to maintain harmonious relationships with company management without disrupting operations.
Ogbe also commended Nahco for its investment in modern equipment and continuous staff training, describing the development as essential to enhancing operational efficiency and reducing workplace pressure. He reiterated that ongoing training is vital for workforce development and organisational competitiveness.
“There is no end to training. When employees are well trained and fairly compensated, they are more likely to remain committed to the organisation,” he said, while praising the company for ensuring job security and continuity for its workforce.
Responding on behalf of management, Nahco’s Group Executive Director, Corporate Services, Dr Peter Olusola Obabori, disclosed that the company had scheduled a meeting with union representatives on April 1 to further discuss staff welfare and related matters.
While congratulating Ogbe on his emergence as ATSSSAN President, Obabori acknowledged that fair wages and improved benefits remain central concerns for workers. He maintained that Nahco has consistently upheld equitable remuneration practices and continues to enhance staff welfare packages.
According to him, the company operates various performance-based incentive schemes, including bonuses, profit-sharing, and employee share ownership programmes, designed to improve staff earnings and financial security.
“We ensure that our staff are not adversely affected by economic fluctuations by introducing palliative measures whenever necessary,” Obabori stated, adding that management is closely monitoring global economic trends to mitigate their impact on employees.
He further revealed that Nahco has invested over $20 million in modern ground handling equipment, a move that has not only improved working conditions but also boosted the company’s revenue and profitability.
On workforce development, Obabori disclosed that the company’s robust training programmes have made its employees highly competitive globally, noting that about 20 staff members recently secured employment with Qatar Airways in Doha.
He encouraged employees to take advantage of the company’s share ownership scheme, highlighting its impressive growth trajectory. “The company’s shares, which sold for ₦4 four years ago, are now valued at ₦170. There are significant wealth creation opportunities for staff who invest wisely,” he said.
The engagement between ATSSSAN and Nahco management underscores a growing commitment within Nigeria’s aviation sector to foster industrial harmony, strengthen workforce welfare, and drive sustainable growth through strategic collaboration.
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