NCAT faces possible shutdown as aviation unions demand staff conditions review

Four unions representing aviation workers have issued a 14-day ultimatum to the management of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, Kaduna State, over the failure to review staff conditions of service.

In a joint statement, the unions warned that if the management does not complete the review within the given timeframe, they would be compelled to direct their members to withdraw services, potentially paralyzing the institution.

The statement was signed by Olayinka Abioye, General Secretary of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE); Frances Akinjole, General Secretary of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN); AbdulRasaq Saidu, Secretary General of the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP); and Waheed Sikiru, General Secretary of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE).

The unions expressed frustration over what they described as “management’s continued indecision and lack of seriousness on matters affecting staff welfare and industrial harmony.”

They noted that despite repeated engagements with union leaders, management had only shown “lip service” toward improving employees’ conditions.

“Our commitment to the growth of NCAT has remained steadfast, recognizing its pivotal role as a center of aviation excellence,” the unions said.

“However, management’s inaction on reviewing staff conditions of service has left us with no choice but to issue this ultimatum.

“Should the review not be concluded within 14 days, we will have no alternative than to direct our members to withdraw services immediately.”

NCAT, which is regarded as a leading aviation training institution in Nigeria, now faces the risk of operational disruption if the management fails to meet the unions’ demands.