The National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) has called for a review of the current policy that allocates 50 percent of the revenue generated by aviation agencies to the Treasury Single Account (TSA). This policy affects agencies including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), and the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT).
National President of NUATE, Comrade Ben Nnabue, emphasized that retaining a larger portion of the agencies’ revenue could lead to improved airport infrastructure and global competitiveness. He argued that most of the world’s top airports are publicly built and maintained, suggesting Nigeria should adopt a similar approach to develop its aviation sector.
Nnabue highlighted that losing half of the agencies’ revenue hampers their ability to upgrade facilities, manage operations effectively, and invest in necessary infrastructure. He also discussed ongoing negotiations on the conditions of service for aviation workers and urged the government to revisit navigation charges, which are reviewed annually, to reflect current economic realities.
Furthermore, he commended the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and FAAN’s management for their efforts in rebranding airports like Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Regarding the recent airport concession at Enugu, he confirmed that workers’ rights and benefits would be maintained, ensuring job security during the transition.
NUATE representatives have also engaged the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Aviation to address issues related to workers’ freedom of association and rights. On the training and development of aviation personnel, Nnabue stressed the importance of periodic review of navigation fees to support operational sustainability and economic stability within the industry.
