The battle against airport concessioning without stakeholder input is not new. Over the years, aviation unions in Nigeria have fiercely opposed government moves that sideline workers in critical decision-making processes. The latest uproar, marked by a total shutdown of FAAN offices and gates at the FAAN Freedom Square Congress, underscores the deep-rooted distrust between aviation professionals and policymakers.
History reminds us of similar resistance in the past when previous administrations attempted to privatize or concession key national assets without engaging workers. The unions, including the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), and the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), have consistently demanded transparency in any negotiation affecting the workforce.
Reflecting on past struggles, Comrade Ben Nnabue, President of NUATE, reiterated a crucial lesson: “Posterity will not forgive those who sell FAAN without consulting stakeholders.” His statement echoes past warnings from union leaders who stood against arbitrary agreements that threatened workers’ futures.
This recent controversy reveals a disturbing trend—unilateral decision-making by authorities, despite assurances of due process. The unions’ concern over a draft agreement proposing an 80-year concession raises fundamental questions: Is this a sale or a concession? Why is the government bypassing workers in key discussions?
History has shown that rushed and opaque concession processes often lead to industrial crises. The 2000s saw a similar resistance when previous concession plans failed due to lack of engagement. Today’s aviation workers demand not just inclusion but adherence to agreements—especially after Minister Festus Keyamo’s earlier promise to resolve labour issues before any concession.
As aviation unions stand firm, their demand for a fair and transparent process serves as a warning: any attempt to undermine worker rights will face strong resistance. The message remains clear—airport concessioning should not be a secret deal but a collaborative effort that protects national interests and aviation professionals.
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