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 of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s (FAAN).

The meeting was convened by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo in Abuja, a statement on Wednesday by his 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 both the unions and the concessionaire, Aero Alliance, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which guaranteed job security and preservation of status for those affected.

He said that 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 that the meeting provided a platform for frank discussions on workers’ welfare, job security and the long-term sustainability of the airport under the proposed 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 in pursuing reforms that modernise aviation infrastructure without compromising the welfare and dignity of Nigerian workers.

He said: “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 implemented this 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 entire process was transparently conducted and assured that no staff would be affected by the policy.