The Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) has expressed strong appreciation to the management of Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) for executing a 40 percent salary increment for its employees. The union hailed this development as a major enhancement to staff welfare.
Union President's Commendation
Comrade John Ogbe, President of ATSSSAN, delivered the commendation during a courtesy visit by the union's newly elected executives to SAHCO management at Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA) in Lagos. While applauding the salary review, Ogbe urged the company to begin implementing the long service award scheme as outlined in the organisation's conditions of service.
He also called on SAHCO to prioritise female employees for outstation training opportunities whenever such programmes arise, emphasising the need for greater inclusion and capacity development for women in the aviation industry.
Commitment to Industrial Harmony
The ATSSSAN President reiterated the union's dedication to constructive engagement and industrial harmony, noting that collaboration is one of the association's core values. According to him, the union understands the unique dynamics and sensitive nature of the aviation industry and is committed to working with management to ensure sustainable growth.
Ogbe urged SAHCO's management to maintain confidence in the branch executives elected by workers, assuring the company of the union's continued support and cooperation. He said: "We believe in genuine collaboration and partnership. The executives were freely elected by members, and we are committed to working with management in the interest of both staff and the organisation."
Management's Response
In her response, the Managing Director of SAHCO, Adenike Aboderin, described ATSSSAN as a passionate advocate of workers' welfare. She also recalled Ogbe's active role in negotiations involving workers' interests and lauded his dedication to labour issues.
Aboderin noted that although management and labour often approach issues from different perspectives, both parties ultimately seek the same objective: the progress of the organisation and the welfare of employees. She canvassed the need for modern-day unionism to align with contemporary workplace realities, adding that discipline must remain a key principle among union members.
According to her, union membership should not be used as a justification for indiscipline or truancy. The SAHO chief also expressed concern over the growing incidence of substance abuse among workers and urged ATSSSAN to intensify efforts in mentoring its members against the trend.
She reaffirmed management's commitment to employee welfare, explaining that the recent 40 percent salary increase was part of ongoing efforts to improve staff motivation and job satisfaction.
