JUST IN: Tensions Soar As Keyamo Holds Emergency Closed-door Talks With Striking NiMet Workers

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, is currently holding a closed-door meeting in Abuja with the striking staff of the Nigeria Meteorology Agency (NiMet) in a bid to resolve the ongoing industrial action.

The strike, which began at midnight on Tuesday, has significantly disrupted operations across the aviation sector. This follows multiple warnings issued by the unions to NiMet’s management over unfulfilled promises regarding staff welfare and working conditions.

Despite the industrial action, some airlines—XEJET, Aero Contractors, and Ibom Air—were able to maintain their flight schedules on Wednesday. However, Air Peace suspended all operations nationwide, citing the unavailability of critical weather information due to the strike.

In a statement on its official account, Air Peace explained that the suspension was necessary to ensure flight safety. The statement, signed by Ejike Ndiulo, Head of Corporate Communications, said:

“Due to the ongoing NiMet strike and the unavailability of CNH (hazardous weather) reports required for safe landings, Air Peace has suspended all flight operations nationwide until the strike is over.
Your safety is our top priority. We appreciate your understanding and will share updates as the situation unfolds.”

By Thursday, the impact of the strike became more evident as numerous passengers were stranded at Lagos airport, waiting for delayed flights.

Around 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), confirmed via his handle that Minister Keyamo had commenced a meeting with striking union leaders, NCAA DG Capt. Chris Najomo, and other key stakeholders to find a resolution.