The unions representing staff at the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) have called off a strike that was scheduled to begin at midnight on Wednesday, following productive discussions with the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
A statement released in Abuja and signed by Mr. Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Aviation Minister, confirmed that the decision to suspend the industrial action came after an extensive meeting between union leaders and Minister Festus Keyamo.
The talks focused on staff welfare and salary-related concerns.
According to the communiqué issued by both parties, several important agreements were reached during the negotiations.
Notably, the Minister and the Permanent Secretary committed to engaging relevant authorities on issues concerning salary relativity, ensuring that staff pay is fairly reviewed in the context of national wage structures.
The unions have agreed to exercise patience while continuing to follow up on the payment of the 2024 Minimum Wage and the nine months’ arrears owed as consequential salary adjustments.
Management has also pledged to immediately pay 30 previously omitted employees from NiMet’s internally generated revenue funds.
In addition, the agency would implement 35 per cent of the approved furniture grant immediately, with the balance of 65 percent scheduled for inclusion in the 2026 annual budget.
To enhance financial accountability and transparency, an inter-agency committee will be formed under the leadership of the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ibrahim Kana, tasked with reconciling funds owed to NiMet by other government agencies.
The statement highlighted that NiMet management would collaborate closely with union representatives to seek approval for outstanding allowances and other establishment matters from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission.
Both the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and agency management have been urged to expedite the necessary administrative processes.
Minister Keyamo commended the union leaders for their maturity and constructive engagement during the talks, emphasising the Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding staff welfare, promoting industrial harmony, and driving reforms to boost productivity within the aviation sector.
Based on these developments, the previously planned strike action by NiMet staff has been officially suspended, avoiding potential disruption of meteorological services critical to aviation safety and national weather monitoring.
