Strike action threat if safety not improved at Port Harcourt International Airport

Nigeria's opposition Action Congress (AC) in Rivers state has given the federal government a deadline of one month from 28 October 2008 to improve conditions at Port Harcourt International Airport (DNPO/PHC) or risk a strike. A review of the airport's facilities revealed several inadequacies, including a lack of radar equipment and runway and edge lighting, making landing after 1830 local time (1730 UTC) and during unfavorable weather conditions virtually impossible. The airport's condition has triggered questions from the state government over President Umaru Yar'Adua's alleged commitment to improving conditions in the Niger Delta. If the federal government does not take action to correct the inadequacies by 28 November, the airport's staff and workers will strike for an indefinite period and march in protest.