Why Air Peace? The Selective Targeting of Nigeria’s Largest Airline Must Stop

Lagos and Abuja – Nigeria's largest airline, Air Peace, is facing industrial action from aviation unions, which have picketed and disrupted its operations in key cities. This marks the latest instance of the airline becoming a target for what its management and supporters describe as disproportionate industrial action.

The unions have put forth two main justifications for their actions: an alleged refusal by Air Peace employees to join the unions and an outstanding debt owed to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) by all airlines, related to a five percent Ticket Sales Charge (TSC). However, the Director-General of the NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, has reportedly stated that an agreement for settlement is in place between the regulator and the Airlines Operators of Nigeria (AON).

Air Peace asserts it has been compliant, having paid billions in ticket charges and other fees. The airline questions why this issue has become grounds for industrial action, especially when union officials are reportedly encouraging passengers to fly with other carriers. This raises concerns about whether the actions extend beyond legitimate workers' rights.

Furthermore, the airline defends its workers' right to choose union membership, citing a cordial relationship with management for over a decade, consistent payment of salaries, and benefits. Comrade Aminu Suleiman, a union leader at Air Peace, stated, "We can choose to join or not. It's not by force." This stance challenges the mandatory unionization aspect of the unions' demands, highlighting a potential conflict between union objectives and individual workers' rights.

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We can choose to join or not. It's not by force.