Flight operations across Nigeria were severely disrupted on Wednesday following a strike by workers of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), leaving hundreds of air travelers stranded at major airports in Lagos, Abuja, and Kano.
The industrial action, sparked by grievances over unpaid allowances and non-implementation of the new national minimum wage, led to the suspension of flight operations by several airlines. Air Peace, in particular, halted all nationwide flights, citing the lack of hazardous weather reports critical for safe operations.
“Due to the ongoing NiMet strike and the unavailability of CNH reports required for safe landings, Air Peace has suspended all flight operations nationwide until the strike is over,” the airline said in a statement signed by its Head of Corporate Communications, Ejike Ndiulo.
While some airlines like XEJET, Aero Contractors, and Ibom Air managed to continue operations in Lagos, the protest significantly affected services at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja and the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has convened an emergency meeting with leaders of the protesting unions, scheduled for today. The government is under pressure to resolve the dispute swiftly amid rising public frustration.
Union leaders accused NiMet management of failing to implement the N30,000 and N70,000 minimum wage structures, neglecting staff welfare, omitting employees from past payments, and ignoring training obligations.
Timothy Meshelia, the Northwest Zonal Chairman of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations and Technical Employees, warned that the unions would escalate their action if demands are not met within a month.
NiMet management, however, expressed disappointment over the strike, claiming that several issues raised were either resolved or being addressed. A senior official described the action as “premature and possibly politically motivated.”
Despite the tensions, officials say they remain committed to a peaceful resolution.
“The Minister has shown support and we are hopeful. The unions must remember: no one bites off his nose to spite his face,” said a NiMet source.
Meanwhile, air travelers are advised to check with airlines for updates as negotiations continue.
