March 24, (THEWILL) – Aviation unions have threatened to withdraw their services from airports across Nigeria on March 31, 2025, in protest against the recent assault on a director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) by Customs officers at the Lagos Airport.
The National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP) jointly issued the ultimatum in a letter addressed to FAAN management, citing repeated physical attacks on its personnel.
According to the unions, the latest incident, involving the Director of Aviation Security, underscores a disturbing trend of violence against FAAN staff by security operatives.
They insist that unless FAAN takes decisive action, aviation workers will withdraw their services nationwide.
The unions demanded the immediate establishment of clear operational protocols between FAAN and security agencies, in line with global best practices, as well as strict sanctions for violations.
They also accused FAAN of failing to act on previous complaints, warning that they would no longer tolerate inaction.
“Considering the enormity and frequency of physical and psychological assault on FAAN staff and management personnel, we are compelled to inform the FAAN management of our unwavering determination to ensure a framework of mutual respect between FAAN staff and security agencies operating at the airports,” the letter, made available to THEWILL, read in part.
The unions emphasised that unless a structured protocol is put in place to guarantee the safety and rights of FAAN personnel, all aviation workers will withdraw their services from March 31, 2025, until such measures are implemented.
“The recent assault on no less a personality than the Director of Aviation Security of FAAN is one too many and leaves a taste too bitter to swallow,” the statement added.
With the ultimatum set, tensions are rising in the aviation sector, as stakeholders anticipate FAAN’s response to avert a potential shutdown of airport operations nationwide.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
