Three aviation sector unions have suspended their planned strike, which was set to begin on February 4, 2025, following discussions with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
The unions—National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP)—had threatened industrial action over unresolved demands.
Speaking to journalists, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Vice President and AUPCTRE President, Comrade Benjamin Anthony, alongside NUATE General Secretary, Comrade Ochenne Abu, urged President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to address their concerns to prevent future disruptions.
The unions emphasized the critical role of NiMet in aviation, maritime operations, and food security, stressing that shutting down its services would have widespread consequences.
Key demands include the full implementation of the 2019 minimum wage adjustments, payment of the 25-35% federal wage award for NiMet staff, approval of NiMet’s Scheme of Service, and salary harmonization with other aviation agencies such as the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
The unions warned that continued neglect of NiMet’s remuneration concerns could lead to further industrial crises but expressed optimism that resolving these issues would ensure long-term stability in the agency.
