NiMet Workers’ Strike Disrupts Flights Nationwide, Passengers Express Fear
Air travelers across Nigeria are facing growing anxiety as workers of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) began an indefinite nationwide strike at midnight on Tuesday, April 22. The NiMet workers’ strike disrupts flights, casting uncertainty over air operations at major airports, including Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
Aviation experts warn that if the strike continues, it could severely impact flight schedules and passenger safety, as airlines rely on NiMet’s weather clearance for every takeoff and landing.
The strike, spearheaded by the Union of Air Transport Employees, the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals, and the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, stems from unmet agreements on staff remuneration. In a letter obtained by The PUNCH, the unions accused NiMet management of ignoring a partial agreement signed on January 28, 2025.
“Our unions have made relentless efforts over the years to address unjust remunerations that have left NiMet staff in poverty,” the letter stated. “Yet, management has consistently failed to honour its commitments.”
Passengers in Panic as Strike Begins
As the strike commenced, passengers were left confused and anxious. Mrs. Adedire Airin, traveling through Lagos, expressed deep concern:
“I have prayed three times today and won’t break my fast until I land safely. No one can tell me exactly when the strike started. I’ve left everything in God’s hands.”
Another traveler, Aderinsola, voiced her frustrations:
“My flight was supposed to take off yesterday. Some say the strike is on already, while others say it starts today. The confusion is too much.”
In Abuja, John Thompson confirmed that airport officials mentioned the strike would begin at midnight and pleaded with union leaders to reconsider.
“We are begging the unions to dialogue further and avoid putting lives at risk.”
Experts Weigh In on Flight Operations
Despite growing concern, aviation expert Muhammed Badamosi downplayed the potential disruption, citing modern weather technology now accessible to pilots.
“While NiMet’s data is useful, pilots can access global weather forecasts through radar and mobile apps. The strike may not halt all flights,” he explained.
Nonetheless, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and Nigeria Airspace Management Agency have not issued official guidance. Attempts to reach key officials, including NAMA spokesperson Abdullah Musa and the President of the Aircraft Pilots and Engineers’ Union, Galadima Abednego, proved unsuccessful.
A NAMA insider, however, noted that some skeletal weather reports may still be available during the strike.
“Critical staff from the forecast department usually stay back. That may be our only source of weather data for now,” he said anonymously.
Airline Operators Cautiously Monitoring
Aero Contractors’ Managing Director, Ado Sanusi, highlighted that operations depend entirely on weather reports.
“If there’s no weather briefing, flights can’t take off or land—it’s standard procedure,” he stated. “But whether an arrangement has been made with NiMet or not, I cannot confirm at this point.”
Similarly, representatives from the Ministry of Aviation and the Civil Aviation Authority were unreachable for comment as of press time.
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NiMet Workers’ Strike Disrupts Flights Nationwide, Passengers Express Fear