The ongoing strike by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) staff has been temporarily suspended following decisive ministerial action.
Although their concerns centered around welfare and working conditions, a glimmer of hope now exists.
The unions reached this resolution after a crucial meeting convened by Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, in Abuja. Importantly, the strike suspension will last until May 13, 2025, allowing for meaningful dialogue and concrete outcomes.
To address their demands, the Minister held talks with the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP). As a result of this engagement, the staff agreed to put the strike on hold and await further developments.
Following the meeting, Comrade Aba Ocheme, the NUATE National Secretary, made a firm declaration: “The strike has been suspended until May 13, 2025.”
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To that end, he (Keyamo) committed to writing formally to the President and the Minister of Finance.
These letters, according to him, are aimed at resolving the financial troubles affecting NiMET workers, especially subsistence allowances and related matters. While the strike is on hold, hopes are high that this move will yield lasting solutions.
To fast-track things, the Minister has also set up a special committee led by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary. This group will collaborate with the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission and the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
With this team in place, the agency expects swift actions that will not only settle the current crisis but also prevent future unrest. Meanwhile, workers are optimistic that their voices have finally gained the attention they deserve.
Although the strike may resume if promises are not fulfilled, the tone of the meeting was one of cautious optimism. For now, the ball is in the court of the federal government and concerned ministries.
Tags: NiMET, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, NiMET staff suspend strike, National Union of Air Transport Employees, NUATE, Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals, ANAP, Comrade Aba Ocheme.
