The defunct Nigeria Airways workers have issued an urgent appeal over delayed severance payments. The former staff and pensioners say hardship is worsening nationwide. Meanwhile, many elderly beneficiaries remain without support despite a ₦36 billion approval.
The workers described the situation as a humanitarian crisis. They said delays continue to deepen poverty, illness, and avoidable deaths. Therefore, they urged authorities to act immediately.
The defunct national carrier was liquidated in 2004. Since then, thousands of ex-employees have struggled without full entitlements. In addition, many affected workers are now over 65 years old.
According to the group, the airline once reflected Nigeria’s diversity. Staff were drawn from all 774 local government areas. However, decades after service, many remain abandoned.
Hope returned in June 2025. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved ₦36 billion for outstanding severance benefits. The decision raised expectations of long-awaited relief.
Defunct Nigeria Airways Workers Plea
However, several months later, payments are yet to begin. The defunct Nigeria Airways workers say the delay is unacceptable. They stressed that time is no longer on their side.
The group pointed to the Federal Ministry of Finance as critical to the process. They noted that authorisation has not been finalised. Consequently, approved funds remain unreleased.
The Defunct Nigeria Airways workers expressed concern over the human cost. Many pensioners cannot afford medication or food. Meanwhile, others are reportedly bedridden without care.
“These are not just numbers,” the workers said. They include former pilots, engineers, and cabin crew. In addition, administrative and support staff are affected.
The workers noted their years of patriotic service. They said they upheld Nigeria’s image across Africa and beyond. However, their sacrifices now appear forgotten.
The appeal also questioned ongoing bureaucracy. Why should approved funds remain inaccessible, they asked. Therefore, they called for urgent intervention.
The defunct Nigeria Airways workers warned that delays are now life-threatening. Each passing day increases suffering among vulnerable retirees. In addition, more deaths are being recorded quietly.
They described the situation as morally troubling. The workers insisted that entitlements are not a favour. Rather, they are legal and ethical obligations.
The group urged the Honourable Minister of Finance, Prince Wale Edun, to act swiftly. They called for immediate authorisation and disbursement. Meanwhile, they appealed to all relevant agencies to cooperate.
They also acknowledged the President’s approval. However, they stressed that approval without payment offers little relief. Therefore, implementation must follow urgently.
Industry observers say the case reflects wider pension challenges. According to the International Air Transport Association, workforce welfare remains vital to sector stability. In addition, unresolved obligations can damage public trust.
Similarly, Nigeria’s aviation regulators have emphasised accountability. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority continues to push for industry standards. However, legacy issues like this remain unresolved.
The defunct Nigeria Airways workers reiterated their plea. They called for compassion, responsibility, and justice. Meanwhile, they warned against further delays.
They stressed that many beneficiaries cannot wait indefinitely. Age and illness continue to take a toll. Therefore, urgent action is essential.
The workers concluded with a national appeal. They urged Nigeria not to abandon its former servants. In addition, they called for dignity in retirement.
Ultimately, they framed the issue as one of justice. Delayed payments, they said, amount to denied justice. Therefore, authorities must act without hesitation.
