THE Joint In-House Unions of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) have warned the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, of a potential industrial action by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
They stress that the aviation sector is nearing a systemic crisis due to NAMA’s severe liquidity difficulties. The unions involved include the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), and Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE).
This is mainly influenced by a substantial domestic debt of ₦34.69 billion and foreign receivables surpassing $49.48 million.
According to NAMA’s Credit Control records, as of April 30, 2026, nine major domestic debtors account for ₦31.203 billion of NAMA’s total local receivables.
Nine major domestic debtors owe NAMA a total of ₦31.203 billion, with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) owing ₦23.938 billion, followed by NAPIMS (Osubi Airport) at ₦2.051 billion; Arik Air at ₦2.265 billion; Aero Contractors at ₦1.071 billion; Ogun State Government (₦ 465.146 million); Jalingo/Taraba State ( ₦ 309.345 million); Merry Aviation ( ₦ 143.376 million); and ExxonMobil (₦ 58.455 million).
On the international front, major foreign airline operators owe NAMA over $21.84 million, raising the agency’s total foreign debtor exposure to over $49 million.
The unions’ petition is a response to a strike threat from NiMet regarding unpaid financial obligations from NAMA. The unions recognize NiMet workers’ rights to advocate for their welfare but contend that NAMA has acted in good faith despite financial limitations, having remitted about ₦400 million to NiMet between April and June 2026.
In a statement by ATSSSAN and AUPCTRE leaders, the unions expressed concern over NAMA’s financial difficulties due to unpaid statutory revenues from airlines and government agencies. They highlighted that the withholding of the 5% Ticket Sales Charge by the NCAA for four months exacerbates financial strain on NAMA, affecting its ability to provide essential air traffic services.
The unions warned that continued funding issues threaten national security and air safety, potentially disrupting domestic and international flights.