Flight disruptions are imminent in Nigeria’s aviation sector as unions have directed staff of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) to commence a strike starting February 4, 2025.

In a joint letter addressed to NiMet’s Director-General, Prof. Charles Anosike, the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCCSTRSE), and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP) accused the agency’s management of failing to implement a ministerial directive to review workers’ Conditions of Service.

The unions also alleged that NiMet has not implemented its reviewed scheme of service since 2019.

Titled “RE: Failure To Respond To Lawful And Reasonable Demands – 14 Days Ultimatum,” the letter criticized the management’s inaction, stating:

“We are deeply concerned that your management has inexplicably refused all entreaties from our unions to address the extremely adverse circumstances of NiMet workers. Despite being aware of the workers’ substandard welfare conditions within the aviation industry, your management remains indifferent and unresponsive to these issues.”

The unions listed specific grievances, including:

• Non-implementation of the 2019 Minimum Wage Act and payment of nine months’ arrears of consequential adjustments.

• Refusal to comply with the ministerial directive on Conditions of Service.

• Non-payment of 40% peculiar allowance, 25-35% wage award, hardship allowance, and arrears.

• Failure to transition staff to the CONMETSS salary structure.

• Refusal to engage with the unions to address these issues.

The unions emphasized that workers should not continue to endure such neglect and warned that failure to address these concerns would result in industrial action.

“In light of the above, we hereby notify you that our unions will commence industrial action against the agency after 14 days if these issues remain unresolved. All NiMet workers are directed to withdraw their services effective 6 a.m. on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, unless otherwise instructed,” the unions declared.

The impending strike threatens to disrupt aviation operations nationwide, as NiMet plays a critical role in providing meteorological services essential for safe and efficient air travel.