Aviation Workers Advocate Stronger Collaboration For Safety, Productivity
By Stella Enenche, Abuja
Workers in Nigeria’s aviation sector have called for stronger collaboration between management and labour unions to enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity in the industry.
The call was made on Wednesday during the 12th edition of the Aviation Workers Week and Awards Night organised by the Joint Consultative and Negotiating Council (JCNC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
Speaking at the event, themed “Synergy for Safety and Productivity: Management–Labour Collaboration,”
the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Yakubu Kofarmata, commended the ministry’s staff for their dedication and professionalism, describing them as intelligent, mature, and respectful.
He urged workers to continue to work in unity to advance the aviation industry, while also advising them to avoid rumours in the discharge of their duties.
According to him, professionalism, efficiency, and effectiveness remain essential to sustaining progress in the aviation sector.
Also speaking, the Director of Human Resources Management in the ministry, Mr Ejike Usibe, attributed the smooth operations within the ministry to the cordial relationship between management and the unions.
He noted that the aviation industry continues to thrive due to the structures and cooperation that exist between stakeholders, adding that unions must continue to uphold openness, sincerity, and inclusiveness in their activities.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of the JCNC, Comrade Hector Nnadi, appreciated participants for attending the event and commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for fostering collaboration with aviation unions.
Nnadi said the minister has demonstrated commitment to strengthening engagement with unions through open communication and fair dealings with stakeholders.
He therefore urged staff to support initiatives aimed at promoting growth and stability in the aviation industry.
The union leader also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Dr Kofarmata, describing him as a leader who demonstrated the human side of leadership during his time in the ministry.
A panel discussion held during the event focused on the theme of the celebration, highlighting the need for continuous dialogue, safety consciousness, and stronger collaboration between management and labour unions.
The panelists stressed that aviation workers should see themselves as key stakeholders in the industry and work collectively towards achieving shared goals for sustainable development of the sector.
