Aviation Workers Protest Turkish Airlines Over Dismissals

On Tuesday, aviation workers disrupted Turkish Airlines operations at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos due to alleged unfair dismissals of seven union members. The protest was organized by the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), which accused the airline's management of violating Nigerian labor laws and victimizing workers for union activities.

The dismissed employees, who were involved in union activities, were reportedly let go in 2020, and the union claims Turkish Airlines ignored a court ruling mandating their reinstatement. A circular dated March 9, 2026, signed by NUATE General Secretary Sikiru Wahe, highlighted the airline's disregard for Nigerian labor laws.

The protest led to significant disruptions, with hundreds of passengers unable to board their flights. The Nigeria Labour Congress has directed its members in Lagos State to continue the shutdown until Turkish Airlines complies with labor laws and reinstates the affected workers.

Turkish Airlines' public communications executive, Taiwo Talabi, promised to respond to inquiries but had not done so by press time.