Air travel has been severely disrupted across Nigeria following an indefinite strike declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). 

The industrial action, sparked by unresolved issues concerning the new minimum wage and increased electricity tariffs, has led to significant operational halts at the Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Abuja airports.

In Port Harcourt, workers under the aegis of the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAP) and the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) blocked vehicular access to the airport. This action has forced passengers to disembark from their vehicles and walk into the airport premises. Despite the blockade, flights have not been disrupted, but there is a noticeable heavy security presence.

Emmanuel Akagha, Chairman of the Rivers State chapter of ANAP, explained that passengers are still being allowed into the airport due to the road’s importance to surrounding communities. However, he emphasized that no checking-in or boarding activities are currently permitted, effectively grounding air travel operations.

A similar scenario unfolded at Lagos’ Murtala Mohammed Airport II. Numerous passengers were left stranded outside the terminal with their luggage in hand. The aviation unions’ blockade of the airport gate has prevented both staff and passengers from accessing the terminal, creating a chaotic scene as the nationwide protest takes its toll on air travel.

In Abuja, the situation is no different. A handful of passengers were seen at one of the entrances to the airport terminal, which remains locked. The interior of the terminal is deserted, with no staff present and airline counters empty.

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