Aviation Unions Issue Ultimatum to NCAT Management Over Delayed Staff Welfare Review
Four prominent aviation unions have collectively issued a stern 14-day ultimatum to the management of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) in Zaria. The unions are demanding the immediate conclusion of a long-delayed review of staff Conditions of Service, threatening a complete withdrawal of services across the institution if their demands are not met.
The united front comprises the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE). Their collective statement, made public recently, signals a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute over staff welfare and institutional harmony.
The unions expressed “grave concern and indignation” regarding what they perceive as the management’s persistent indecision and a lack of seriousness in addressing critical issues affecting staff well-being and industrial peace within NCAT. This frustration stems from repeated failures by the college’s management to finalize the review of the staff Conditions of Service, despite numerous engagements, meetings, and repeated assurances provided to the unions over an extended period.
This situation at NCAT stands in stark contrast to developments in other Nigerian aviation agencies. Notably, the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) recently announced the approval of its revised Conditions of Service following a comprehensive review. This development highlights a disparity in how staff welfare is being prioritized across the sector, as staff at NiMet have previously voiced concerns about enjoying less favourable welfare packages compared to their counterparts at agencies like the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
The joint statement from the four unions underscored their patient and cooperative approach, undertaken with the overarching goal of ensuring institutional stability. However, they lament that this commitment has not been reciprocated by the management.
“We have noted with grave concern and indignation Management’s continued act of indecision and unseriousness regarding matters bordering on staff well-being and the promotion of industrial harmony within the College,” the unions stated. They further elaborated on their consistent efforts, noting, “It is on record that, notwithstanding Management’s flagrant disregard and discourteous disposition to principal officers of our union and indeed our branch officers, we have remained steadfast and focused towards the growth of the College.”
The unions emphasized that their restraint has been rooted in a deep-seated belief in NCAT’s vital strategic importance to the broader Nigerian aviation sector. “Given its status as the centre of aviation powerhouse in Nigeria, we have consistently supported management as partners in progress,” the statement continued, highlighting their role as collaborative stakeholders.
However, the unions have reached a point where they believe management’s pronouncements on staff welfare are merely “lip service.” The statement explicitly declared, “It has become obvious that Management has been paying lip service to improving the conditions of employment of our members, as evidenced by its latest action or inaction.”
The unions pointedly accused NCAT of being the sole agency within the aviation sector that has yet to conclude its Conditions of Service review, deeming this situation “unacceptable.” They issued a clear warning that if the review is not finalized within the stipulated 14-day period from the date of their notice, workers will cease all operations.
“Since the college has chosen to remain the only agency within the sector that has refused to conclude its Conditions of Service till this time, we hereby give notice,” the unions declared. “If Management fails to conclude this review of Conditions of Service within 14 days from now, our unions shall have no alternative but to direct our members to withdraw their services forthwith. Enough is enough!”
Despite this firm stance and the threat of industrial action, the unions reiterated their unwavering commitment to the overall success and advancement of the institution.
When approached for comment, the spokesperson for NCAT, Jude Amadi, stated that he was unaware of the ultimatum. He promised to investigate the matter further and provide a response. “I’m not aware of the move, but now that I have been informed, I will speak with our union members and get back to you,” Amadi said. As of the time of reporting, the NCAT publicist had not yet provided further information.
The ongoing dispute highlights a critical need for effective communication and timely action from NCAT management to address the legitimate concerns of its staff and avert a significant disruption to academic and operational activities at the premier aviation training institution in Nigeria. The outcome of this ultimatum is keenly awaited by stakeholders within and beyond the aviation industry.
