RismadarVoice Reporters
October 13, 2026
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has urged the state government to address the outstanding grievances of former workers of the Victor Attah International Airport Development Company, particularly concerns over career stagnation and financial losses.
John appealed on Tuesday during a joint ministerial media briefing organised by the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning and the Bureau of Political and Social Re-orientation.
He explained that the affected workers were absorbed into the mainstream state civil service in 2015 but were transferred back to the airport in 2022 following a request by the airport management to address manpower shortages.
According to him, the workers subsequently experienced setbacks in their career progression and financial entitlements, raising concerns about their welfare and employment status.
The NUJ chairman disclosed that the affected employees had presented their complaints to the relevant committee of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, but the issues remained unresolved.
He appealed to the state government to intervene and ensure that the workers’ grievances were addressed.
Beyond the airport workers’ concerns, John called for legislation to protect ancestral lands in oil- and gas-producing communities across the state.
He expressed concern over reports that some individuals in host communities were selling ancestral lands to non-indigenes, warning that such practices could undermine the long-term interests of the communities.
He stressed the need to preserve ancestral heritage, land ownership and natural resources for future generations.
John also urged the government to strengthen oversight of companies operating in Akwa Ibom State, particularly those in the gas sector, to ensure compliance with employment agreements and commitments made to host communities.
He cited reports of a company allegedly questioning the binding nature of an agreement it had signed despite previous settlements and commitments.
The NUJ chairman maintained that agreements reached between companies and host communities should be respected, urging the government to protect the employment and economic interests of residents.
Speaking further, John raised concerns about alleged irregularities in appointments and instances of incompetence within the state civil service.
He advocated a transparent, merit-based appointment system that prioritises integrity, professional qualifications and competence to improve public service delivery.
He also called for greater attention to economic diversification and sustainable development, arguing that the state should expand opportunities beyond politics and public sector employment.
Despite the concerns raised, John expressed confidence in the Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters and encouraged continued engagement with stakeholders to resolve outstanding labour disputes.
He emphasised that protecting workers’ rights, strengthening institutional accountability and ensuring compliance with employment agreements would contribute to improved industrial relations and sustainable development in Akwa Ibom State.
