Workers’ Values, Resilience Can’t Be Underestimated In Aviation — Keyamo

LAGOS – Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has declared that the contributions, resilience and dedication of workers in sustaining safety, growth and stability in the sector in the country could not be over-emphasised.

Keyamo said that for the government to succeed in its programmes and policies, it was imperative for it to support and engage with the workers through their representatives, especially the industry unions.

A statement by Mr. Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Keyamo, said that the minister made the statement in Marrakesh, Morocco, where he is attending the 2024 International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Congress as a Special Guest.

All the aviation unions in the Nigerian aviation industry, especially the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), are represented at the congress.

According to Keyamo, the Federal Government recognised the essential role transport workers play in stabilising the aviation sector and the economy as a whole.

The minister explained that the government recognised the contributions of workers to the continuous growth, safety, and stability of the sector in Nigeria.

He said: “The success of our aviation industry is deeply rooted in the dedication and resilience of our workers.

It is imperative that we support and engage with them as partners in our mission to drive the sector forward. My presence here in Marrakesh is a testament to that commitment.”

The statement hinted that the minister’s presence at the ITF Congress also signified the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to foster stronger collaborations between industry stakeholders, unions, and the government in addressing key challenges, such as workers’ welfare, infrastructural development, and policy reforms that benefit the transport sector.

Moshood emphasised that Keyamo also used the opportunity to engage with global leaders and experts in the transport and aviation sectors, sharing Nigeria’s vision for a more sustainable and innovative aviation ecosystem.

He further reiterated the ministry’s resolve to improve workers’ conditions, streamline operations, and ensure the growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry aligns with international standards.

The ITF Congress, which is one of the largest global gatherings of transport unions, brings together representatives from over 150 countries to discuss key issues, share best practices, and formulate strategies to advance workers’ rights across various transport sectors.