Former employees and pensioners of the defunct Nigeria Airways have raised fresh concerns over the non-payment of a ₦36 billion gratuity and severance package approved in June 2025 by President Bola Tinubu, warning that the delay is worsening their living conditions.
The complaint was made on Thursday in Lagos by representatives of more than 5,000 affected workers, who noted that many retirees are ageing, in poor health, and dying without receiving their entitlements.
Speaking at a news conference, a former pilot, Capt. Prekeme Porbeni, said that although the Federal Government approved the release of the outstanding balance, the funds have yet to reach beneficiaries. He emphasised that the delay has had severe consequences, with many former staff now aged between 65 and 101, and some reportedly over 100, raising serious concerns about welfare and justice for retired workers.
Porbeni explained that following the liquidation of Nigeria Airways in 2004, the Federal Government and aviation unions agreed on a total severance package of ₦78 billion for affected employees. The package, he said, was structured as a one-off payment equivalent to 15 years’ salary for each worker.
While successive administrations paid part of the entitlement, a balance of ₦36 billion remained outstanding. Porbeni added that President Tinubu’s approval in 2025 renewed hope among former workers; however, the continued delay in disbursement has deepened frustration and uncertainty.
“Several efforts have been made by unions, concerned organisations, national legislators, and the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to ensure payment,” Porbeni said. “Unfortunately, the matter remains unresolved, and the consequences have been devastating.”
He noted that many of the affected workers served in critical roles, including pilots, engineers, cabin crew, technicians, administrators, and accountants, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Porbeni further disclosed that about 600 former staff members had died after receiving the first tranche of payments, underscoring the urgency of settling the outstanding balance.
He urged the Federal Government and relevant agencies to expedite action. “We humbly call on those responsible for implementing this presidential approval to act swiftly. This is not merely a financial obligation, but a matter of justice and compassion,” he said.
“Our members are ageing and suffering, and many are dying daily. They deserve dignity and relief after years of service to the nation,” he added.
