Minister Festus Keyamo assured that the concession process is active and will carry human capital liabilities. He emphasized that safeguarding jobs is a priority as the concession involves transferring assets and ensuring workforce security. Moreover, the Minister hinted at plans to build an aerotropolis, attracting world-class investors for this major development. Senate condemns last minute Abuja, Kano Airports Concession, to initiate probe
Keyamo stated, “We are advertising very soon for concessions, however, we want to carry the unions along. This is my major focus in this drive. I don’t want to do it like the previous ones. There were complaints either from within, resistance by the unions, other people and even the co-bidders that the processes were not transparent enough.”
Keyamo reassured unions, explaining that the first condition for concession winners is to carry human capital liabilities. He said, “First things are ‘my brothers in the unions; your jobs are safe.’ And one of the first conditions we will give whosoever that wants to do concession with us is that they should carry our liabilities along. We will make sure their jobs are saved, then we can start talking, without this, we can’t start talking.” Read Also: SIFAX Group sues FG, Aviation Minister, 2 foreign firms over MMIA concession bid
Meanwhile at a previous engagement, FAAN Managing Director Olubunmi Kuku reiterated the importance of the concession process to the unions. She emphasized the need for private sector participation to revitalize underperforming airports and ensure aviation sector sustainability.
Kuku acknowledged union concerns, stating, “Whenever I discuss private sector participation with the union, they express fears about concessions. These concerns are valid, but the investment required to sustain Nigeria’s aviation sector cannot come from the government alone. It is simply impossible.”
The concession process, according to Kuku, would include legal frameworks to benefit FAAN and protect the sector. Keyamo and Kuku emphasized the importance of including human capital liabilities in every agreement, safeguarding workers’ rights and ensuring transparency.
