NiMet Reaches Agreement with Unions to Postpone Strike Action
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and its agency-based unions have reached a consensus to postpone the planned industrial action originally scheduled to commence on Tuesday, 4th February 2025.
The decision follows extensive negotiations between the national and branch officers of the unions and the NiMet management, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to prioritising the welfare of the agency’s workforce.
The unions involved in the negotiations include the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies (SSASCGOC), and the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE).
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja on Monday, 3rd February 2025, representatives of the unions announced the postponement, citing agreements reached with NiMet management.
As part of the resolution, both parties signed an agreement detailing specific timelines for addressing the concerns raised by the unions.
The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, expressed appreciation for the unions’ willingness to engage in dialogue rather than proceed with the strike.
He assured workers that the agency remains committed to their welfare, but within the limits of realistic economic conditions.
“I welcome the efforts of the national officers of NiMet’s agency-based unions and the input of the branches. We are not over the line yet on the issues, but I am happy that we have been able to convince the unions’ leadership to postpone their planned strike action.
“This will enable management to continue with its ongoing efforts towards obtaining the necessary approvals from the federal government on the issues raised by the unions,” Prof. Anosike stated.
Comrade Benjamin Nnabue, President of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), who led the negotiations on behalf of the unions, explained that industrial action is always a last resort.
He acknowledged that some of the current issues were inherited but insisted that the government, as a continuous entity, must address them.
“These issues with NiMet management may be inherited, but government is a continuum. Our interest is the overall welfare of the staff of NiMet,” Nnabue asserted.
The discussions were observed by the Director of Labour in the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mr Olusoga Adebayo, who commended both parties for their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.
He noted that the negotiations were characterised by a spirit of compromise, which ultimately led to an amicable resolution.
“Through social dialogue, both parties have been able to reach a fair and peaceful resolution. This is the way industrial relations should be handled,” Adebayo remarked.
The agreement jointly signed by the unions and NiMet management acknowledged that miscommunication had contributed to delays in addressing workers’ concerns.
Both parties committed to strengthening consultation and engagement channels to prevent similar situations in the future.
Additionally, all stakeholders reaffirmed their dedication to fostering industrial harmony, promoting the welfare of NiMet employees, and ensuring a progressive partnership.
As a sign of goodwill, the unions agreed to suspend the strike action until further notice, pending the implementation of agreed resolutions.
This development offers a reprieve to the agency, ensuring that NiMet continues its vital meteorological services without disruption, while discussions on workers’ demands progress constructively.
