Aviation Unions Issue 14-Day Ultimatum to NCAT Over Unresolved Conditions of Service
Four major aviation unions have issued a fourteen-day ultimatum to the management of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, warning of an imminent withdrawal of services if the long-standing review of staff Conditions of Service is not concluded within the stipulated period.
In a strongly worded joint notice dated 14 January 2025 and addressed to the Rector and Chief Executive Officer of NCAT, the unions expressed what they described as “grave concern and indignation” over what they termed management’s persistent indecision and lack of seriousness on issues relating to staff welfare and industrial harmony within the College.
The notice, jointly signed by the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), the Air Transport Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), and the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), accused NCAT management of paying “lip service” to improving the conditions of employment of its workforce.
According to the unions, despite what they described as management’s “discourteous disposition” towards principal and branch officers of the unions, organised labour at the College has remained committed to the institution’s growth and stability.
They emphasised that their continued restraint was informed by NCAT’s strategic importance as Nigeria’s premier aviation training institution and a critical pillar in the development of the country’s aviation sector.
“It is on record that, notwithstanding management’s flagrant disregard for our union leadership, we have remained steadfast and focused on the growth of the College, given its status as the centre of aviation powerhouse,” the unions stated.
However, the unions said their patience had been stretched to the limit, noting that NCAT had become the only agency within the aviation sector yet to conclude a review of its Conditions of Service. They described this situation as unacceptable and detrimental to staff morale, productivity, and industrial peace.
The unions warned that failure by management to conclude the review within fourteen days from the date of the notice would leave them with no option but to direct their members to withdraw their services across the College.
“Take notice that if management fails to conclude this review of Conditions of Service within fourteen (14) days from now, our unions shall have no alternative than to direct our members to withdraw their services forthwith. Enough is enough,” the statement read.
The threat of industrial action at NCAT raises concerns for the aviation sector, as the College plays a critical role in the training of pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers and other aviation professionals for Nigeria and the wider West African sub-region. A shutdown of activities could disrupt training schedules and have ripple effects across the industry.
Despite the ultimatum, the unions reaffirmed their willingness to work with management in the interest of the institution, stressing that their action was aimed at compelling a resolution rather than undermining the College’s mandate.
“We remain committed to assisting the College in achieving its goals,” the unions said.
The notice was signed by Comrade Olayinka Abioye (General Secretary, NAAPE), Comrade Frances Akinjole (General Secretary, ATSSSAN), Comrade AbdulRasaq Saidu (Secretary General, ANAP), and Comrade Waheed Sikiru (General Secretary, NUATE), and copied to branch chairmen and secretaries of the respective unions.
As of the time of filing this report, NCAT management had yet to issue an official response to the unions’ ultimatum.
