NIMET Strike Suspended After Aviation Minister Keyamo’s Timely Intervention

Workers at the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) have suspended their ongoing strike following the direct intervention of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK).

The decision to halt the industrial action until May 13, 2025, was the outcome of a high-level meeting between the Minister and leaders of the aggrieved unions, including the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP).

This was disclosed in a statement by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister, who detailed the events leading to the suspension.

Speaking after the meeting, Comrade Aba Ocheme, National Secretary of NUATE, expressed optimism about the Minister’s intervention. “We have resolved to suspend the ongoing strike till May 13, 2025, in recognition of the Honourable Minister’s timely and sincere intervention,” he stated.

Comrade Alale Adedayo, National President of ANAP, echoed the sentiment, adding: “As a mark of respect for the Honourable Minister’s intervention and assurance, we have decided to temporarily call off the strike while the process of resolution is ongoing.”

The strike was triggered by unresolved grievances, including poor working conditions, delayed implementation of the 2019 minimum wage adjustment affecting at least 30 staff, demands for a 25/35% salary increment, 40% hardship allowances, and a lack of annual training opportunities.

In response, Minister Keyamo expressed empathy with the NiMet staff and committed to swift and lasting solutions. He announced his intention to personally engage President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Finance to fast-track financial resolutions.

Furthermore, a Ministerial Committee headed by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, has been established to collaborate with the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, to clarify issues around subsistence allowances and other concerns.

The Minister commended the union leaders for their maturity, patriotism, and readiness for dialogue, stressing the importance of maintaining industrial harmony in the aviation sector. Dr. Kana also assured stakeholders of meaningful progress before the May 13 deadline.

This resolution brings temporary relief to the aviation industry, with renewed hope for a comprehensive settlement that ensures improved welfare and stable operations across the sector.