In a letter signed by union representatives, NiMet staff have issued an ultimatum to management (NiMet staff strike), demanding the settlement of 42 months of outstanding arrears by Monday, 20th May 2024. Failure to comply will result in a withdrawal of services.
Meanwhile, NiMet Management has assured staff of efforts to resolve unpaid salary adjustment disputes saying the issues predates current management.
The letter addressed to the DG was signed by Ocheme Aba, General secretary NUATE, Waheed Sikiru Ha General Secretary, AUPCTRE and Abdulrasaq Saidu, Secretary General ANAP.
Union’s Accusations:
Also, unions also call for a restructuring of the salary system to align with government-approved standards and the resolution of outstanding CoS issues with set timelines for action.
The letter accuses management of deceptive practices in previous payment agreements, highlighting a lack of responsiveness to staff concerns. NiMet staff strike.
“Your management took the decision to off-set the payment of the 45 months arrears on instalment basis. It turned out to be a gimmick to just avert the strike as management discontinued the payment after only three months. This left a balance of forty-two (42) months.”
Despite recent initiatives to provide relief and salary increases, the government excluded NiMet staff, further exacerbating tensions.
The ultimatum signals a critical juncture in NiMet labor relations. Staff are prepared to take decisive action if unmet.
NiMet Reacts:
Responding to concerns over unpaid salary adjustments, Dr. Nasiru Sani, NiMet’s HR Director, emphasized the institution’s commitment.
He clarified the issue’s preexisting nature but assured ongoing engagement with unions and updates on progress.
Expressing optimism, Sani cited recent discussions with union reps at the Budget Office.
“We are optimistic and hopeful of a positive outcome. The Budget Office informed us during our last visit with the union representative that arrears payments are not unique to NiMet. They have placed NiMet in the sixth batch of scheduled payments. Currently they are paying the fifth batch”
