Aviation unions and the concessionaire of Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA), Enugu, have reached an agreement on the preservation of the status of the staff affected by the concession process, especially those on the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s (FAAN) payroll.

The meeting was convened by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in Abuja, a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, said.

The unions in attendance were the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSAN), the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP).

According to the statement, the unions and the concessionaire, Aero Alliance, signed an MoU, which guaranteed job security and preservation of status for those affected.

He said the agreement ensured that no worker would be unjustly displaced and that existing conditions of service would be respected in line with agreed terms.

Keyamo, in the statement, said the meeting provided a platform for frank discussions on workers’ welfare, job security and the long-term sustainability of the airport under the concession arrangement.

Keyamo also commended the leadership of the three unions for their maturity, patriotism and commitment to constructive engagement.

He restated the commitment of the Federal Government to reforms that modernise aviation infrastructure without compromising the welfare and dignity of Nigerian workers.

“This administration believes strongly in dialogue, fairness and inclusivity. Infrastructure development and workers’ welfare are not mutually exclusive. We will continue to ensure that every reform process is guided by compassion, equity and national interest.”

Keyamo also reaffirmed his commitment to continuous engagement with stakeholders as he works to build a globally competitive, efficient and sustainable aviation industry for Nigeria, the statement added.

The unions had previously kicked against the concessioning of the airport, which was affected in January, claiming that the entire process lacked transparency.

The unions had alleged that their representatives in the concession committee set up by the minister were sidelined by the government.

But, Keyamo had consistently claimed that the process was transparently conducted and assured that no staff would be affected by the policy.