The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has been applauded for facilitating the approval of pension benefits for the former staff of defunct Nigeria Airways Limited (NAL).
In an official statement signed by the leadership of Aviation Union Grand Alliance (AUGA), led by the president, Comrade Shuaibu Alfa, and Vice President, Comrade Wusaini Ibrahim, the aviation union described the Minister’s efforts as a monumental achievement that showcases his dedication and leadership.
Updating their members on the latest developments concerning their pension benefits at a forum, the leaders stated that “today, we gather at the Secretariat Headquarters of Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) in Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos to update our ex-staff of the progress of our pursuit and express our deepest gratitude and appreciation to the Honorable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
According to them, Keyamo’s unwavering commitment to facilitating the approval of pension benefits for ex-staff of Nigeria Airways is a monumental achievement that showcases his dedication and leadership.
“The approval of pension benefits is a significant milestone, and we acknowledge the minister’s tireless efforts in ensuring this outcome. His personal involvement in leading the unions and stakeholders through the process, including a physical trek to the office of the Minister of Finance, demonstrates his unwavering commitment to the welfare of aviation workers”, the union stated.
They also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to recognise and reward the Minister’s exceptional performance, allowing him to continue serving with distinction.
AUGA equally urged the relevant authorities to expedite the release of the approved funds and avoid unnecessary bureaucratic delays.
Speaking at the gathering, the National President of ATSSSAN, Comrade Ahmad, expressed immense gratitude to the Minister, “The Minister has done so well, and we promise to remain steadfast with him as he continues in this way. We echo this sentiment, acknowledging the Minister’s commitment to public service and his positive impact on the aviation industry.”
Comrade Ahmadu Ilitrus, represented by the First National Deputy President, led a minute’s silence for all who died in the struggle for pension benefits from September 30, 2004, when the gates of Nigeria Airways were locked, to date.
“We offer our heartfelt prayers for the Minister, his family, and all those who contributed to this success. May God bless and reward their efforts, and may the Minister’s commitment to public service be an inspiration to others.
“May his legacy continue to inspire future generations of leaders and public servants. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of his work on the aviation industry and the lives of Nigerians,” the union members emphasised.
