The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has intensified coordination with aviation agencies, airlines, security organisations and other stakeholders to minimise disruptions arising from the ongoing industrial action by aviation unions.
The authority, in a statement issued by its management, said it was closely monitoring developments and implementing measures to ensure that airports across the country remain safe, secure, accessible and operational despite the labour dispute.
The industrial action, backed by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), has disrupted some flight operations, with airlines adjusting or suspending services at affected airports.
FAAN said it recognised the role of organised labour and supported efforts led by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to reach an amicable resolution between the parties.
“In the interim, FAAN is working closely with the relevant aviation agencies, airlines, security agencies and other stakeholders to minimise the impact of the industrial action and ensure that airport operations are not disrupted,” the authority said.
FAAN also disclosed that earlier operational challenges affecting the movement of some flights within the airside environment had been addressed through inter-agency coordination.
It said measures were being sustained to support the orderly continuation of flight operations and prevent further disruption to airport activities.
The authority assured passengers and other airport users that aviation safety and security remained its priority throughout the industrial action.
“FAAN remains committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s airports remain safe, secure, functional and accessible to passengers and other airport users,” it said.
Passengers were advised to remain calm and maintain contact with their respective airlines for real-time updates on flight schedules, cancellations and possible changes to their travel plans.
The assurance comes as aviation unions continue to press their grievances against some airlines, including allegations relating to workers’ freedom to unionise and the non-remittance of the five per cent Ticket Sales Charge.
The unions have demanded the resolution of the issues while government and aviation authorities continue engagements aimed at ending the dispute.
FAAN expressed confidence that the ongoing discussions under the leadership of the aviation minister would produce a speedy and mutually acceptable resolution, while thanking passengers for their patience and understanding.
