Keyamo Facilitates Nigeria Airways Pensions Payment Approval

BY ANTHONY OMOH

After more than two decades of relentless advocacy, former employees of the defunct Nigeria Airways have finally seen a breakthrough. The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has facilitated the long-awaited approval of their pension benefits.

This development marks a significant milestone in Nigerian aviation history, bringing closure to a prolonged struggle that began after the national carrier shut its doors on September 30, 2004. Many of the affected workers have since passed on, while others lived in despair, waiting for justice and compensation.

The approval was announced during a gathering at the Secretariat Headquarters of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Concord, Airport Road, Lagos. Aviation unions used the occasion to inform former staff about the progress and extend their heartfelt appreciation to the minister for his active role in achieving this breakthrough.

Keyamo approves Nigeria Airways pensions after personally intervening and leading stakeholders through a complex bureaucratic process. His physical involvement, including a visit to the Minister of Finance alongside union leaders, proved pivotal in unlocking this long-delayed payment.

Speaking at the event, President of the Aviation Union Grand Alliance (AUGA), Comrade Captain Shaibu Alfa, described the achievement as a victory for justice and perseverance. He praised the minister for not only responding to their appeals but actively driving the process to success.

“Minister Keyamo has demonstrated what it means to serve with empathy,” Comrade Shaibu stated. “He didn’t just listen, he acted, and for that, history will remember him.”

Assisting him in the address was Comrade Wusaini Ibrahim, who echoed the sentiments, stating that the minister’s leadership offers hope for a more compassionate governance structure.

Also present at the event was the First National Deputy President of ATSSSAN, representing the National President, Comrade Ahmadu Ilitrus. He led a minute of silence in honour of the former workers who died while awaiting their entitlements. The union noted that while many did not live to witness this milestone, their sacrifice will not be forgotten.

During the solemn moment, union members reflected on the pain and abandonment suffered over the years. Yet, the atmosphere quickly turned hopeful as the news of the minister’s intervention reignited belief in government responsibility and worker dignity.

In a show of appreciation, the leadership of ATSSSAN reaffirmed its support for Minister Keyamo. “The Minister has done so well, and we promise to remain steadfast with him as he continues in this way,” the association declared.

Union leaders called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to acknowledge the minister’s exemplary performance. They appealed for his continued service in the aviation sector, noting that his impact has already begun to resonate positively.

Despite the approval being granted, aviation unions urged authorities to expedite the disbursement of funds. They stressed that delays could erode the goodwill this milestone has generated. Bureaucratic bottlenecks, they warned, must not be allowed to obstruct the process further.

Keyamo approves Nigeria Airways pensions, but stakeholders insist that success will only be complete when beneficiaries receive actual payment. The union also stressed the importance of transparency in the distribution process, urging the Ministry of Finance to act swiftly.

Comrade Kadiri, Chief Security Officer of AUGA, closed the session with prayers for the minister and all contributors to the cause. “May God bless and reward their efforts,” he said, “and may this moment inspire greater compassion in public service.”

With this action, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development has earned the admiration of thousands of families who have long waited for a lifeline. It is a testament to what is possible when leadership meets purpose.

For many in attendance, the meeting was more than a briefing; it was a symbolic closure to years of suffering. They hope this marks a new era of accountability and humanity in the treatment of workers, especially those who serve national interests.

The aviation unions pledged to continue working closely with the Ministry to ensure that no former staff member is left behind. As expectations rise, they look forward to a seamless disbursement that truly honours the sacrifices of Nigeria Airways’ workforce.