By FLORENCE ONUEGBU

The Nigeria Union of Private Cab Operators (NUPCO) has warned of a looming crisis in the aviation sector.

The union blamed the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for policies threatening airport taxi operators’ livelihoods.

NUPCO President, Mr Adeola Adepegba, issued the warning on Monday during a press conference in Ikeja.

Adepegba alleged that FAAN’s recent directives could displace licensed airport taxi operators nationwide.

He urged the Federal Government to intervene and prevent what he called “anti-worker actions” by FAAN.

According to him, airport cab operators had served passengers for over 50 years.

He said they should not be displaced through policies undermining their businesses and investments.

Adepegba claimed FAAN was forcing members to adopt an app-based system without proper consultation.

“NUPCO is distinct from app-based transport unions and cannot be compelled to adopt another model.

“We support innovation but reject imposed systems without dialogue and understanding,” he said.

Adepegba said the union could develop its own digital platform when necessary. “We do not need external consultants to develop an app for us,” he stated.

The union leader accused FAAN of allocating airport spaces to e-hailing platforms.

He said such moves undermined licensed airport taxi operators already facing regulatory obligations.

Adepegba noted that members undergo annual inspections, licensing and operational charges.

He criticised the increase in airport pickup tariffs from N500 to N1,500 per passenger.

He described the 200 per cent increase as excessive amid current economic challenges.

According to him, the hike would increase fares and worsen operators’ difficulties.

Adepegba also faulted the directive to phase out vehicles made before 2012, saying the policy contradicted FAAN’s recent certification of the same vehicles.

“It is surprising that certified vehicles are now declared unsuitable months later,” he said.

He added that operators could not easily replace vehicles without financial support.

Adepegba warned that the policy could push existing operators out of business. He also raised concerns over plans to reduce airport taxi operators.

He said such action could threaten jobs across the transportation sector, urging aviation authorities to facilitate urgent dialogue.

He warned that unresolved grievances could trigger industrial unrest. “We urge government to call FAAN management to order and avert crisis,” he said.

NUPCO Vice-President, South-West, Mr Allison Obasanjo, also opposed the tariff increase.

Obasanjo said the decision was taken without adequate stakeholder consultation.

He highlighted rising fuel costs, maintenance expenses and declining passenger patronage.

“For three years, operators have not reviewed fares in spite of economic realities,” he said.

He rejected the tariff increase, describing it as an added burden on operators.

Obasanjo urged FAAN to embrace dialogue in resolving the dispute.

Also, Mr Rufus Olusesan, Precision, Electrical and Related Equipment Senior Staff Association (PERESSA) President, supported NUPCO’s position.

He accused FAAN of failing to engage unions through proper dialogue.

He said labour laws recognised NUPCO’s jurisdiction over private airport cab operators.

“Government agencies must operate within the law,” Olusesan said. He urged FAAN to respect established union structures and regulations.

Olusesan warned organised labour would resist attempts to undermine workers’ rights.

“We will support this union because its demands are rooted in existing laws,” he said.

FAAN, however, defended the policies, saying they aimed to improve passenger experience.

Mr Henry Agbebire, FAAN Director of Public Affairs, explained the authority’s position.

He said airports were national gateways requiring high standards in service delivery. Agbebire said vehicle upgrades would improve safety, comfort and reliability.

On tariffs, he said the review reflected current economic realities. He explained that the N500 charge had remained unchanged for over eight years.

Agbebire said rising inflation and operating costs necessitated the adjustment.

He added that the review would support airport infrastructure and service efficiency. (NAN)

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