In a significant boost for Nigeria’s aviation sector, the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) has suspended its planned strike against Ethiopian Airlines after Federal Government mediation. The decision eases rising tension over unpaid salaries, delayed promotions, low wages, and contract staffing issues.
Federal Government Steps In
A conciliation meeting was held by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi. During this session, NUATE and Ethiopian Airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The MoU sets a two-week deadline for both parties to continue negotiations. The discussions will be supervised by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
Patience Onuobia, Head of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry, confirmed the agreement in an official statement. She said the suspension of the strike ensures smooth airline operations and avoids disruption for passengers.
Assurance of Industrial Peace
The agreement also provides that no strike or work stoppage will take place until the next meeting. This assurance is crucial for maintaining stability in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Minister Dingyadi restated the government’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights while encouraging fair labour practices. He added that early intervention prevents service disruption in key sectors like aviation, which are vital to the economy.
Recurring Labour Disputes
Wage concerns and delayed promotions have long been recurring issues in the aviation sector. They have led to several union strikes and threatened actions in the past.
In August 2025, four aviation unions NUATE, ATSSSAN, ANAP, and AUCPTRE suspended a strike planned at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) after assurances that revised salaries would be paid with August wages.
This new agreement with Ethiopian Airlines follows the same pattern, where government mediation helps resolve disputes and keep airline services running.
What Happens Next
The next two weeks will be a test of commitment for Ethiopian Airlines management and NUATE. If successful, the negotiations could set a new standard for labour relations in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
For now, passengers can enjoy uninterrupted services. Workers, on the other hand, await positive outcomes that will improve wages, promotions, and job security.
