The nationwide disruption of weather services has eased as the resumption of flight operations followed the suspension of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) workers’ strike.
The industrial action, led by aviation unions within the NiMET, was officially put on hold until May 13, 2025. This followed an intervention by Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
During an emergency meeting, union leaders from the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP) agreed to suspend the strike. They cited the Minister’s willingness to engage and initiate solutions as a key reason for the decision.
With the resumption of flight operations, services across major terminals are gradually returning to normal.
Comrade Aba Ocheme, NUATE’s National Secretary, confirmed the development after talks with the Minister. He said the unions would monitor the situation until the new deadline and take further action if necessary.
In his remarks, Comrade Alale Adedayo, President of ANAP, noted that the suspension was a mark of goodwill. He emphasized that the strike could resume if commitments are not honored.
The workers’ grievances include salary disparities, omitted staff from the 2019 minimum wage adjustment, delayed promotions, and demands for hardship allowances. The unions also pushed for consistent annual training for NiMET staff.
Responding, Honourable Keyamo promised direct communication with the President and the Minister of Finance. These communications aim to resolve pending financial issues affecting NiMET employees.
He also inaugurated a Ministerial Committee, led by Dr. Ibrahim Kana mni, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry. The committee will interface with the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission and the Federal Ministry of Labour to ensure workers’ demands are clearly addressed.
Meanwhile, in a welcome development, Air Peace has resumed normal flight schedules starting Friday, April 25, 2025. The airline was among the worst-hit by the NiMET strike, which disrupted critical weather updates required for safe flying.
Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, Head of Corporate Communications at Air Peace, thanked customers for their patience. He acknowledged Honourable Keyamo’s intervention as vital to restoring order in the aviation sector.
“His actions demonstrate foresight, responsibility, and deep commitment to aviation growth,” Ndiulo said. He reiterated that the airline remains focused on safety, excellence, and dependable service.
Passengers with delayed or missed flights are encouraged to contact Air Peace for assistance with rescheduling. Customer support teams are available via email and phone lines.
With services stabilizing, attention now turns to the Minister’s follow-through on promised reforms. The unions are hopeful but remain cautious as the May 13 deadline approaches.
