The minister of aviation and aerospace development, Festus Keyamo on Thursday, pledged to prioritise the well-being of  members of staff  in the ministry.

Mr Keyamo made the pledge on Thursday in an opening remark at the 2024 Joint Consultative and Negotiating Council (JCNC) of aviation workers and stakeholders sensitisation conference.

Represented by the ministry`s permanent secretary,  Emmanuel Meribole, the minister said that when workers are taken care of, they will devote their energies to exceptional performance.

“We must prioritise the well-being of our workers. A healthy and satisfied workforce is a productive workforce.

“Ensuring that our employees have access to quality healthcare, a safe working environment, and work-life balance will enhance their overall well-being and job satisfaction,“ he said.

On the aviation roadmap, the minister said it was  aimed to elevate Nigeria to a  hub of excellence in air transport service encapsulated in the ministry`s five focus agenda.

According to him, the agenda encompasses modernising the nation’s airports, enhancing safety and security measures, improving passenger experiences, improving competence of Aviation workers and fostering a robust competitive aviation market.

“However, none of these goals can be realised without active participation and dedication of our workers.

“You are the heartbeat of this industry, and your skills, expertise, and passion are the driving forces behind our progress.

“ To mobilise our workforce effectively, we must first invest in our people. Training and development are paramount.

“We need to equip our workforce with the latest knowledge and skills to operate cutting-edge technologies and adhere to global best practices,“ he said.

Mr Keyamo said that continuous professional development programmes, workshops, and certifications would  be readily available to ensure that personnel were competent and confident in their abilities to meet  challenges ahead.

He said the ministry would foster a culture of innovation and collaboration as the aviation industry was rapidly evolving, with advancements in technology and changing passenger expectations.

The minister added that efforts to implement performance-based incentives and recognition programmes would boost morale and also inspire others to strive for excellence.

He stated that workers were more likely to go above and beyond in their roles, contributing to the overall success of the aviation roadmap when they felt valued and appreciated.

Mr Keyamo said the ministry would also deepen efforts by using communication as another vital element in mobilising her workforce.

Earlier, JCNC chairman,  Hector Nnadi said the workers have determined to work in harmony with the management of the ministry  to actualise aviation road map goals.

Mr Nnadi expressed optimism that such collective efforts would raise the aviation industry to be  a source of national pride and catalyst for economic growth and development.

“We gather here under the theme: ‘Mobilising Workers towards Achieving the Aviation Roadmap’ in order to strategise together.

“The aim is to improve safety standards, enhance our skills and knowledge, attract investments and create jobs, strengthen international partnerships among all.

“Certainly, we  are the backbone of this industry. Together, we will achieve greatness. Let us march forward with unity, determination, and a shared vision, “ he added. 

(NAN)