By Milcah Tanimu

Travellers using Lagos airports can expect some relief as aviation unions have decided to temporarily “relax” their strike actions. This decision follows significant disruptions caused by the nationwide strike initiated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) on June 3.

The strike was a response to the federal government’s refusal to increase the minimum wage from the proposed ₦60,000. The Deputy National Secretary of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Francis Akinjorin, announced on Tuesday that the relaxation of the strike at the airports is for one week. He clarified that this is not a suspension but a temporary easing to “test the sincerity” of the federal government.

“Union members say they are ‘relaxing’ the action for one week and not suspending the strike to give the federal government the one week grace and test their sincerity,” the notice read.

The initial strike had led to widespread cancellations and delays across various airlines, significantly affecting airport operations. This development follows the federal government’s outreach on Monday to the leaders of the NLC and TUC for an emergency meeting, aiming to resolve the impasse over wage negotiations. The outcome of these talks could potentially influence further actions by the unions.