Four major aviation unions have given the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, a 14-day deadline to finalise the long-overdue review of staff Conditions of Service, warning that failure to act will lead to a complete shutdown of operations at the institution.
The unions, Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, National Union of Air Transport Employees, Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals, and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, issued the ultimatum in a joint statement released on Saturday.
The unions accused NCAT management of indecision and lack of seriousness regarding staff welfare, despite repeated meetings and assurances. They noted that other aviation agencies, including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, had already concluded similar reviews, while NCAT remained the only agency yet to do so.
They argued that their patience had been motivated by NCAT’s strategic importance to Nigeria’s aviation sector, but said management’s continued delay amounted to “lip service” to staff welfare.
“If management fails to conclude this review within fourteen days, our unions shall have no alternative than to direct our members to withdraw their services forthwith. Enough is enough,” the statement read.
Earlier in the week, the Nigeria Meteorological Agency announced the approval of its revised Conditions of Service, intensifying pressure on NCAT to follow suit. Staff at NCAT have long complained of inferior welfare packages compared to their counterparts in other aviation agencies.
When contacted, NCAT spokesperson Jude Amadi said he was not aware of the ultimatum but promised to consult union members and provide feedback. As of press time, no official response had been issued.
Despite their warning, the unions reiterated their commitment to the institution’s success, but insisted that staff welfare must be prioritised to ensure industrial harmony.
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