Amanze ChinonyeNigeria’s aviation sector faces a looming shutdown as four major aviation unions have declared an indefinite nationwide strike, directing workers of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to withdraw their services starting from 05:00 a.m. on Monday, August 11, 2025.
The strike action, announced in a joint notice signed by the leadership of the unions, stems from the federal government’s failure to implement a revised salary structure that was negotiated and concluded over eight months ago. Despite repeated appeals, including a seven-day ultimatum issued on July 31, 2025, the government has failed to act, prompting the unions to enforce the withdrawal of services.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe unions involved are:
• National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE)
• Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN)
• Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP)
• Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE)
In the notice dated August 7, 2025, jointly signed by Comrades AbdulRasaq Saidu (ANAP), Odinaka J. Igbokwe (NUATE), Frances Akinjole (ATSSSAN), and Alo Lawrence (AUPCTRE), the unions directed all NAMA staff nationwide to comply strictly with the directive to halt all operations indefinitely.
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“All workers of NAMA are hereby directed to stop all services with effect from Monday 11th August, 2025 at 05:00hrs indefinitely,” the notice read.
“All airlines and allied companies, as well as the flying public, are hereby informed of the above stated action and advised to make alternative travel arrangements.”
The strike, if implemented, is expected to severely disrupt both domestic and international flight operations, as NAMA provides critical air traffic management services, including communication, navigation, and surveillance.
Copies of the notice were forwarded to key stakeholders, including:
• The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development
• The Managing Director/CEO, NAMA
• The Managing Director/CEO, FAAN
• Commissioner of Police, Airports Command
• Directors of State Security (All Airports)
• Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON)
According to the unions, the salary structure review was completed and agreed upon months ago, yet remains unimplemented without explanation. They allege that the government’s continued silence and inaction has left them no choice but to resort to industrial action.
“We have exhausted all engagement processes without any meaningful response. The government has failed to honour an agreement it willingly entered,” the union leaders said.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the Ministry of Aviation or NAMA regarding the looming industrial action.
The strike is expected to significantly impact aviation infrastructure and economic activity nationwide, especially amid increased travel during the summer holiday season. Airlines, travel agencies, and logistics companies are now adjusting schedules and advising passengers ahead of the anticipated disruption.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
