Nigeria’s local aviation sector is facing another round of disruptions as labour unions have once again shut down domestic airports across the country. Despite the widespread impact on local travel, international flights remain largely unaffected, maintaining a crucial link for global travellers and trade.
The strike, led by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), is part of an ongoing protest against unresolved labour disputes, including demands for better wages and improved working conditions. This latest action has forced the closure of all major domestic airports, grounding numerous flights and leaving passengers stranded.
“Our grievances have not been addressed, and our calls for fair treatment have been ignored,” said Comrade Benjamin Okewu, President of ATSSSAN. “We are left with no choice but to intensify our efforts to get the government’s attention and ensure our demands are met.”
The shutdown has caused significant disruptions for local travellers and businesses relying on domestic air travel. Passengers at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport in Abuja faced long delays and cancellations, with many expressing frustration over the ongoing labour disputes.
“These strikes are becoming a regular occurrence, and it’s causing a lot of inconvenience for travellers,” said Adaobi Chukwu, a stranded passenger in Lagos. “The government and unions need to find a permanent solution to this problem.”
In contrast, international flights have continued to operate without significant interruptions. Airports have prioritized maintaining international connections, with special arrangements made to ensure that foreign carriers can land and take off as scheduled. This has been a relief for international travellers and businesses that depend on global connectivity.
“The continued operation of international flights is crucial for maintaining Nigeria’s links to the global economy,” said Hadi Sirika, Minister of Aviation. “We are committed to ensuring that international travel remains undisrupted while we work towards resolving the domestic issues.”
The government’s efforts to negotiate with the unions have so far failed to yield a breakthrough. In a statement, Minister of Labour and Employment Chris Ngige called for patience and reiterated the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue. “We are open to constructive discussions with the unions to address their concerns,” Ngige said. “It is important that we find a solution that ensures the sustainability of our aviation sector and the welfare of our workers.”
As the strike continues, the economic implications are becoming increasingly apparent. The tourism industry, in particular, is feeling the strain as domestic travel restrictions hinder the movement of both tourists and local business travellers. This ongoing disruption poses a risk to the broader economy, which relies on the aviation sector for connectivity and commerce.
Business leaders are urging a swift resolution to the dispute, highlighting the importance of stability in the aviation industry. “The frequent shutdowns of local airports are detrimental to our economy,” said Niyi Adebayo, President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce. “We need the government and unions to come to a resolution that ensures consistent operations and supports economic growth.”
As the nation grapples with these ongoing disruptions, the focus remains on finding a balanced solution that addresses the needs of workers while maintaining the vital infrastructure of Nigeria’s aviation sector. The outcome of these negotiations will be crucial in determining the future stability and efficiency of air travel within the country.
