The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has stated that the issue of outstanding retirees' entitlements predates the current management. In a statement by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Dr. Abdullahi Musa, the agency clarified that this challenge is a longstanding institutional problem inherited from previous administrations.
Current Management Not Responsible for Delays
Dr. Musa refuted claims that the current management, led by Farouk Umar, intentionally withheld payments to retirees. He explained that delays in benefit payments are largely due to policy implementation gaps, pension-related complications, and bureaucratic procedures inherent in public sector financial obligations. The agency emphasized that the current administration is one of the most worker-friendly in NAMA's history.
The statement read: "The issue of outstanding retirees' benefits did not originate under the current leadership. It is a longstanding institutional challenge inherited from previous administrations due largely to policy implementation gaps, pension-related complications and bureaucratic bottlenecks associated with public sector financial obligations."
Efforts to Address Outstanding Obligations
NAMA noted that under Engr. Farouk's administration, renewed administrative attention, institutional commitment, and official approvals have been secured to address these obligations. Following engagements with stakeholders and retirees' representatives, the Managing Director directed appropriate departments to commence necessary settlement processes. However, the agency maintained that payment of such obligations must follow statutory procedures involving documentation, budgetary appropriations, administrative vetting, and government approvals before disbursement.
Staff Welfare Reforms Implemented
The current management has also implemented several staff welfare reforms, including the full implementation of the agency's Conditions of Service (CoS), an achievement previous administrations failed to accomplish despite years of worker agitation. Additionally, a new salary structure has been approved and implemented, resulting in improved remuneration, welfare, and morale among employees.
NAMA has prioritized human capacity development through enhanced local and international training opportunities, improved operational conditions, and sustained engagement with serving and retired staff on welfare issues.
Dismissal of Religious Sentiment Allegations
The agency dismissed allegations attempting to introduce religious sentiments into administrative matters, insisting that it operates strictly on principles of professionalism, competence, inclusiveness, and national unity. "It is irresponsible and malicious for anyone to falsely suggest that public resources are being diverted for personal religious activities," the statement said.
Progress in Operations and Safety
Under Farouk's leadership, NAMA has continued to record progress in operational safety systems, navigational infrastructure, technical manpower development, and compliance with international aviation standards. While acknowledging frustrations over delays in entitlement payments, the agency appealed for constructive engagement devoid of inflammatory remarks that could undermine institutional harmony. The statement insisted that despite existing bureaucratic and financial challenges, the management is committed to addressing staff and retirees' welfare while sustaining reforms within Nigeria's airspace management system.
