Former employees of the defunct Nigeria Airways broke into celebrations as the Federal Government finally approved the payment of their long-awaited pension benefits, ending a two-decade struggle for entitlements.
The development followed the intervention of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, who facilitated the resolution after years of bureaucratic delays.
Representatives of the Aviation Union Grand Alliance (AUGA) and the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) gathered in Lagos during the weekend to acknowledge the breakthrough, describing it as a historic victory for ex-workers who have been without pension benefits since the airline ceased operations in 2004.
AUGA President, Comrade Captain Shaibu Alfa, confirmed that Keyamo personally accompanied union leaders to the Ministry of Finance to push for the approval, a move that helped overcome previous administrative bottlenecks.
“He demonstrated what true leadership looks like—putting people first, especially workers who have long been forgotten,” Alfa remarked.
Although the approval has been granted, union leaders urged swift action to ensure timely disbursement, warning against fresh delays that could further frustrate affected retirees and their families.
They also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to retain Keyamo in his current role, citing his reforms and dedication as instrumental to progress in the aviation industry.
A solemn moment of silence was observed in honour of former workers who passed away before seeing this day, with prayers offered for their souls and comfort for their families.
Speaking on behalf of ATSSSAN President Comrade Ahmadu Ilitrus, the association’s deputy national president reiterated the union’s support for the Minister, thanking him for prioritizing the welfare of aviation personnel.
Prayers were offered for Keyamo, his team, and all who played a role in advancing the cause. Many in attendance described the development as a turning point and a testament to the power of persistent advocacy and responsive governance.
As the sector awaits full implementation, stakeholders voiced hope that the Minister’s legacy would inspire future leaders to act with similar compassion and integrity.
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