Nigerian aviation unions have issued a stern warning to shut down all airports nationwide starting March 31, 2025, in response to an alleged assault on the Director of Aviation Security at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) by a customs officer.
In a joint statement, 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) condemned the recurring attacks on FAAN personnel.
The statement, signed by Ocheme Aba, Frances Akinjole, and Abdul Rasaq Saidu, emphasized that the unions would no longer tolerate such incidents.
The unions also urged the government to reduce the number of customs officers operating in civil aviation, aligning with international standards.
Union’s Statement
“Considering the enormity and frequency of physical and psychological assault on the staff and management personnel of FAAN, of which there is no end in sight, we are compelled to inform the management of the unwavering determination of our unions to cause the establishment of a clear framework of mutual respect among FAAN staff and the security agencies operating at the airports.
“Consequential sanctions are in place which guarantee the safety and human rights of FAAN staff. We shall direct all the workers to withdraw from the airports with effect from March 31, 2025, pending when such protocols are established.
“The recent assault on no less a personality than the Director of Aviation Security of FAAN is one too many, which leaves a taste too bitter to swallow.
“It is our sincere hope that our demand in the above respect is well met to avoid the industrial conflagration that will ensue in the absence of acceptable remedial actions.”
Meanwhile, Nigeria Customs Service spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada attributed the altercation to a miscommunication over equipment movement and seating arrangements between FAAN officials and customs officers.