By Newsshelve Correspondent.
The National Association of Air Traffic Engineers (NAAE) has strongly condemned the Federal Government’s decision to deduct 50% of revenue generated by aviation parastatals in Nigeria.
The association has called for an immediate reversal of the policy, citing its detrimental impact on the affected agencies, particularly the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).
Selzing Miri, President of NAAE, emphasized that the deductions have severely affected NAMA’s ability to fund critical recurrent training for its professionals, compromising safety standards.
He expressed deep concern about the diminishing training opportunities for NAMA personnel, attributing the shortfall to the government’s revenue deductions.
Miri argued that the deductions are unnecessary, as aviation agencies like NAMA operate on a cost-recovery basis, not for profit.
He stated that the revenue generated goes toward staff salaries, procurement of essential equipment, and facility upgrades, and that taking from this limited income hampers the agency’s ability to function effectively.
The NAAE president urged the government to reconsider its stance, emphasizing that the deductions should be halted entirely.
He encouraged NAAE members to remain law-abiding but ready to participate in peaceful union protests should the government fail to address the issue.
Miri painted a bleak picture of the situation, warning that if the deductions continue, the agency might struggle to pay salaries.
He cautioned that the government’s actions have only added to NAMA’s burdens, rather than providing subventions to support the agency.
The NAAE’s call for an immediate reversal of the policy highlights the urgent need for the government to reassess its decision and consider the long-term implications for the aviation sector in Nigeria.
Comment here