By Ameh Gabriel
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has responded to a renewed threat of industrial action by three major aviation unions—the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP).
In a strongly worded statement issued by the Director of Human Resource Management & Administration, Dr. Nasiru Sani, the agency described the unions’ accusations as “unfair and demeaning,” while reaffirming its dedication to staff welfare and transparency.
The unions, in a joint letter dated April 10, 2025, alleged that NiMet had failed to fulfill key aspects of a previously signed agreement dated January 28, 2025. But NiMet has pushed back, outlining steps already taken and progress made on the issues raised.
Key Points from NiMet’s Response:
January 28 Agreement:
NiMet acknowledged the union’s concerns but explained that some components of the agreement require inter-agency collaboration. The agency said it has reached out to relevant government bodies and is currently awaiting necessary approvals.
Conditions of Service:
The agency expressed disappointment over what it called the union’s lack of trust in the revised Conditions of Service. It emphasized that the updated documents had been forwarded to the supervising Ministry and even enhanced with additional staff allowances.
Wage Awards and Payments:
On matters such as the 25–35% wage award, outstanding payments from the 2019 minimum wage, and the exclusion of 30 staff members from those payments, NiMet confirmed that approvals had been secured and that the delay was due to funding disbursement beyond the agency’s control.
Salary Structure Dispute:
Regarding the call to adopt the Nigerian Airspace Management Authority (NAMA) salary structure, NiMet stated that no official directive or document supports this claim. Nevertheless, the Honorable Minister has been engaged and is reportedly open to improving staff remuneration.
Staff Training:
NiMet highlighted the introduction of a “Continuous Staff Training” program in 2024, designed to ensure inclusive development across all departments, contrary to claims of neglect.
Quarterly Allowance Payment:
Despite economic constraints, the agency disclosed that the Director-General recently approved and disbursed the quarterly Conditions of Service allowance to all staff as a goodwill gesture.
Revenue Boost for Staff Welfare:
To enhance its staff welfare initiatives, NiMet revealed it had secured approval for an increased share of internally generated revenue from aviation agencies, including NAMA, NCAA, and FAAN.
Call for Dialogue:
Reaffirming its preference for constructive engagement, NiMet invited union representatives for further dialogue aimed at resolving outstanding issues and preventing a disruption of operations.
Looking Ahead
While NiMet has publicly restated its commitment to staff welfare and a harmonious workplace, the unions have yet to formally withdraw their threat to resume strike action. The aviation sector and wider stakeholders now await the unions’ response as dialogue efforts continue
