The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has expressed support for aviation workers involved in an industrial dispute over the non-release of funds linked to the five per cent ticket charges collected from passengers. The development has raised concerns within the aviation sector, with organised labour demanding urgent action to resolve the matter and prevent disruptions to airport operations. The five per cent charge is intended to support the development and sustainability of aviation-related activities, including funding for agencies and services within the sector. Labour leaders have argued that funds collected for specific purposes should be released promptly and transparently to the appropriate beneficiaries. According to the union, delays in the disbursement of the money have created frustration among aviation workers and contributed to the ongoing dispute. The labour movement has urged the relevant authorities to intervene quickly and ensure that the outstanding funds are released in accordance with established arrangements. The dispute comes at a time when Nigeria’s aviation industry is dealing with several challenges, including rising operational costs, infrastructure needs, safety requirements and pressure on workers’ welfare. Any prolonged strike by aviation employees could affect flight schedules, passengers and businesses that depend on air transportation. Labour officials have therefore called for constructive engagement between the government, aviation agencies, airline operators and workers’ unions to prevent the situation from escalating. They also stressed the importance of respecting agreements reached with workers and ensuring that financial obligations are addressed within the required timeframe. The latest development highlights broader concerns about funding and labour relations in Nigeria’s aviation industry. Stakeholders are expected to continue discussions in an effort to reach a resolution and restore normal operations. The unions have maintained that their demands are intended to protect workers’ rights and ensure that funds collected from passengers are properly accounted for and used for their designated purposes.
