FG Directs NCAA to Obtain Airlines' Payment Schedules

The Federal Government of Nigeria has instructed the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and heads of other aviation agencies to obtain payment schedules from airlines regarding outstanding obligations. This directive was issued by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, following an emergency stakeholders’ meeting held on Thursday in Abuja.

Keyamo stated that repayment arrangements should be spread over a reasonable period, considering airlines' operating costs and the current economic climate. He also mandated the directors of finance and accounts of aviation agencies to meet with airlines to establish realistic repayment plans within one week.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the issue of workers’ unionization, with Keyamo reaffirming that workers should freely choose their union affiliation without management interference. The NCAA was tasked with ensuring unions can directly access workers for membership distribution.

Keyamo warned that airlines obstructing this access would face sanctions. A follow-up meeting is scheduled in one month to review progress on these resolutions.