The Federal Government has entered into a concession agreement with PH Airport Limited for the Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo International Airport in Port Harcourt, reassuring aviation employees that the deal will not result in job losses.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Group Managing Director of PH Airport Limited, Eyo Asuquo, signed the agreement after discussions between the minister and aviation labor unions.
This was revealed via a statement from the minister’s media aide, Tunde Moshood, on Thursday.
The unions, headed by Ben Nnabue, approved the agreement after being assuredthat no aviation employee would be laid off due to the concession.
Representing the unions, Nnabue indicated that the welfare of workers and job security were crucial in evaluating the agreement, emphasizing that organized labor wouldn’t endorse any arrangement that jeopardized the livelihoods of its members.
He also mentioned that the unions were pleased with the guarantees provided by the government and the concessionaire, noting that their support came after thorough discussions regarding the effects of the concession on employees and the airport’s future.
During the signing ceremony, Asuquo highlighted Port Harcourt’s strategic position in the Gulf of Guinea as a benefit that could turn the airport into a key hub for regional trade, investment, and connectivity.
He stated that the company’s goal extended past merely taking over the management of the facility, clarifying that it was dedicated to investing in infrastructure, enhancing operational standards, and broadening economic activities surrounding the airport.
“Our vision extends further than merely assuming control of the airport’s administration. We are dedicated to fostering development, increasing opportunities, and generating more jobs through investments and the advancement of airport-related ventures.
“We aim to tap into the vast potential of this airport, utilizing Port Harcourt’s strategic position in the Gulf of Guinea to draw more economic activities and enhance its role as a key aviation and commercial center,” he remarked.
Keyamo, who oversaw the official signing, had previously met privately with aviation union leaders to discuss their issues and ensure their comprehension of the concession process.
Present at the meeting were Chris Najomo, the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority; Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria; ministry directors, and representatives from aviation unions.
