Aviation unions petition Presidency over Air Peace airside invasion

A group of aviation unions has petitioned the Nigerian presidency following an alleged intrusion by Air Peace Airlines at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on August 11, 2026. The unions are requesting a speedy security inquiry and prosecution of those found responsible. In a petition to the National Security Adviser, the groups claim that Air Peace employees and management drove five branded buses onto the airport's taxiway and manoeuvring area after a trade union protest, causing disruption and posing a significant safety risk.

The unions, which include the Airline Staff and Service Association of Nigeria, National Union of Air Transport Employees, and National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, described the incident as a national security concern, warning that unauthorized obstruction of critical aviation infrastructure could endanger passengers, crew, and airport personnel.

The unions allege that the airlines have been obstructing workers' right to unionize and failing to remit the statutory Ticket Sales Charge, which has negatively impacted key aviation agencies. The unions also warn that the growing discontent among workers could lead to industrial unrest and jeopardize aviation safety.