Retired Nigeria Airways Staff Await N76 Billion Benefits

The article addresses the ongoing issues faced by retired staff of Nigeria Airways, who have not received their severance benefits, totaling N76 billion. This situation has persisted since 2001, when Dr.

Kema Chikwe, then Minister of Aviation under President Olusegun Obasanjo, established a committee to address staff restructuring. Despite recommendations to ensure no staff were retired without benefits, the ministry ignored these suggestions.

The plight of approximately 4,000 affected staff has been exacerbated by the airline's liquidation in 2003, which was deemed ill-advised. Various administrations, including those of Presidents Umaru Musa Yar'Adua and Goodluck Jonathan, have failed to rectify the situation.

The current Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, is urged to take action to fulfill the promises made nearly nine months ago regarding the payment of these entitlements. The article emphasizes the need for urgent resolution to avoid further suffering for the retirees.