Industry Stakeholders Call for Collaboration to Ensure Safe Flight Operations

Chinedu Eze

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s aviation sector have emphasized the need for collaboration among government agencies and unions in the industry in order to promote safety and enhance seamless management operations.

Speaking at the second 2nd edition of the Annual Strategic Aviation Trade Unions’ Leadership Conference, themed: “Synergy for Safety and Productivity: Management-Labour Collaboration,” organised by Joint Aviation Trade Unions’ Forum (JATUF), the stakeholders said the gathering reflects the enduring commitment of aviation unions to foster dialogue, build consensus, and strengthen the aviation sector, adding that the theme of the conference was timely and underscores the essence of partnership in driving industry success.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, emphasized that safety and productivity are non-negotiable and imperatives in aviation, noting that achieving these objectives requires a shared vision and concerted action by all stakeholders, especially the management and labour arms of the sector.

“As the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, I recognize and deeply value the critical role aviation unions play in maintaining workforce morale, advocating for best practices, and ensuring the seamless operation of our industry,” he said.

The Director General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, who also gave a goodwill speech at the event, said it has been his policy since his inception to  prioritize level management relationship and collaboration.

He added that the theme of the conference is well-crafted and also very much appreciated, especially as the concept of building level management cooperation is very essential for the industry.

Najomo who was represented by the Director, Human Resources and Administration, NCAA, Dr Mrs Anastasia Gbem, said Collaboration is the way to go, adding that during conflict situations, people still have to sit down and dialogue to resolve whatever issues that may be affecting the situation.

In her goodwill message, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku said aviation is inherently a collaborative enterprise adding that achieving safety and productivity—the twin pillars of operations in the sector—demands the concerted efforts of management and labour.

She stated that as the heartbeat of the industry, aviation unions play an indispensable role in fostering an environment of trust, professionalism, and innovation.

Kuku who was also represented by the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Adebola Joy Agunbiade, said: “Since the inception of my administration, I have been committed to nurturing a positive and inclusive relationship with our unions. Through regular dialogue, mutual respect, and shared vision, we have achieved significant milestones that underscore the power of collaboration. These engagements have been instrumental in resolving challenges, advancing employee welfare, and enhancing service delivery across our airports.”

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman, Joint Aviation Trade Union’s Forum (JATUF), Amadu Illitrus said the idea of JATUF was nurtured and perfected between the unions in aviation and the Ministry of Aviation.