Keyamo asks aviation workers to adopt Civil Service Implementation Plan

Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development has encouraged aviation workers to embrace the Civil Service Implementation Plan, which is aimed at modernizing the Service, as he assured them of his support in fostering growth and development within the ministry and the aviation industry.

The Minister, made this statement while delivering a keynote address at the 11th Edition of Aviation Workers’ Week and Award Night on February 25, 2025, at the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Centre, Abuja.

The event, with the theme: “The Role of Aviation Trade Unions in Galvanizing Workers’ Support for the Attainment of Ministerial Mandates.” brought together key stakeholders, including heads of agencies under the ministry, various aviation sector professionals, and airline operators.

Represented by Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry,   emphasised that unionism should not be antagonistic to progress but a protagonist for it.

He urged that a culture of dialogue is always better “JAW-JAW is always better than WAR-WAR”, he said.

Keyamo, while receiving an award in recognition of his proactive approach to changing the narrative in the Nigerian Aviation sector said the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on prompt payment of workers’ salaries, is effectively in place. He encouraged staff to embrace the Civil Service Implementation Plan, which is aimed at modernizing the Service.

He assured them of his unwavering support in fostering growth and development within the ministry and the aviation industry.

Bello Sani Torankawa, Director of Human Resources Management,  lauded the chairman of the Joint Consultative Negotiating Council (JCNC) for his resilience and dedication. He emphasised that unions play a vital role in any ministry by focusing on workers’ welfare and development, and reiterated management’s support for the annual Aviation Workers’ Week initiative.

Ademola Ojuku, President of the Aviation Round Table, in his goodwill message, commended the JCNC committee for her consistent effort in uniting aviation professionals annually to drive the industry’s progress.

While delivering his welcome address, Hector Nnadi, the Chairman, of the Joint Consultative and Negotiating Council (JCNC),  called on aviation trade unions to strengthen collaboration with the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to drive the successful implementation of ministerial mandates.

He highlighted the critical role of trade unions in aligning workers’ interests with government policies to ensure the growth and sustainability of the aviation sector.

He commended the dedication of aviation workers who work tirelessly to maintain the safety, security, and efficiency of the sector.

“As we all are aware, Trade Unions have always been the backbone of workers’ advocacy; and today, more than ever before, their roles extend beyond the protection of workers’ rights.

“The Unions have transformed into key stakeholders in ensuring that the broader goals and objectives of the Aviation Ministry are understood, embraced, and supported by the workforce.

“By galvanizing the support of workers, Unions can be the driving force that aligns both Governmental objectives and the needs of the workforce to create an environment where both can thrive.”

The climax of the 11th edition of Aviation Workers Week was the Award ceremony presented in categories, to individuals (Staff) who have distinguished themselves through dedication, hard work, honesty etc., organizations such as Arik Airline and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.