The Nigerian Aviation Fire and Safety Association (NAFSA) has directed its members to join a nationwide protest next week. This directive, issued in a circular signed by General Secretary Comrade Akinwunmi Emmanuel, is in response to the 50% IGR deduction by the Federal Government.
Therefore, in solidarity with aviation unions, NAFSA is calling all aviation firefighters to participate in the nationwide protest on Wednesday, 18th September 2024. This protest aims to express dissatisfaction with the Federal Government’s deduction of 50% from the Internally Generated Revenue of various aviation agencies.
The Federal Government’s action has left these agencies struggling to fulfill their obligations. Moreover, without intervention, this could lead to a complete halt in their activities and responsibilities. Hence the nationwide protest next week.
NAFSA urges all aviation firefighters to join ,’The Mother of All Peaceful Protests,’ starting at midnight on 18th September 2024. Furthermore, NAFSA National President, Comrade Ugbeikwu Sunday, stressed that unless the government acts urgently, the aviation industry might be grounded by the 50% IGR deduction.
The training and welfare of firefighters are crucial. Due to the 50% IGR deduction, there are significant training gaps, impacting member readiness and safety standards.
“How can the Agencies meet up with their statutory safety responsibilities if the Federal Government continues to deduct 50% of their revenue?” Sunday questioned.
“Also, the training of Firefighters is expensive. We identified training gaps and need to adequately train our members. How can we train them if the Federal Government doesn’t stop the 50% IGR deduction?The welfare of our members is key to their productivity.” He emphasized.
We have no choice but to instruct our members to join the protest in support of aviation unions.” He added
“The Federal Government must reconsider its stance and exempt the aviation sector due to safety and operational concerns.
