Aviation unions in Nigeria have threatened to shut down all airports nationwide starting March 31, 2025, over the alleged assault of the Director of Aviation Security at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) by a customs officer
The unions involved in the protest include:
National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE)
Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN)
Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP)
In a joint statement signed by Ocheme Aba, Frances Akinjole, and Abdul Rasaq Saidu, the unions expressed dissatisfaction over repeated physical assaults on FAAN personnel, vowing not to tolerate further incidents.
Key Demands
Removal of the customs officer involved in the assault
Reduction in the number of customs officers operating at airports
Implementation of strict protocols to prevent future assaults
The unions stated:
“Considering the enormity and frequency of physical and psychological assaults on FAAN staff, we are compelled to take action to ensure mutual respect between FAAN personnel and security agencies at airports.”
Unless their demands are met, aviation workers will withdraw their services from March 31, leading to a nationwide shutdown of airport operations.
In reaction, Customs spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada described the incident as a miscommunication regarding equipment movement and seating arrangements, downplaying tensions between customs officers and FAAN officials.