BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
After a long wait, the Federal Government has finally settled the 45-month backlog of minimum wage arrears owed to the staff of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
The debt, which has been a significant source of tension between NiMet management, staff, and labour unions, dates back to 2019.
The non-payment of these arrears had been a contentious issue, with staff and unions repeatedly clashing with management.
In May 2024, the unions were on the brink of launching a nationwide strike, set to commence on May 20, 2024.
However, this action was averted at the eleventh hour following an intervention by the House Committee on Aviation Technology and its Senate counterpart.
A special session, convened on May 19, 2024, under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Abiodun Isiaq Akinlade, Chairman of the House Committee on Aviation Technology, brought together NiMet management and union representatives.
This session culminated in an agreement that led to the suspension of the planned strike.
Professor Charles Anosike, the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for authorizing the payment of the arrears.
“Mr. President has once again shown his commitment to the welfare of workers. Although this issue predates his administration, he has taken decisive action to clear these outstanding payments.
“I must also extend my thanks to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his crucial role, and to honourable Abiodun Isiaq Akinlade and the members of the House Committee on Aviation Technology for their dedication and timely intervention.
“I also express my gratitude to Senator Abdulfatai Buhari and the members of the Senate Committee on Aviation. The collective efforts of all involved have been instrumental in resolving this matter. I urge NiMet staff and unions to reciprocate Mr. President’s gesture by working diligently to fulfill NiMet’s mandate,” he said
The staff of NiMet, through the NiMet Unions Joint Action Committee (NJAC), have also expressed their appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister Festus Keyamo, and the legislative bodies involved.
In a statement issued on August 12, 2024, and signed by Comrade Okechukwu Nwokoro, Secretary of NJAC and Branch President of SSASCGOC, NiMet, the unions conveyed their heartfelt gratitude.
“This timely intervention has greatly alleviated the financial burdens our workforce has faced over the years and has renewed our dedication to serving the nation with excellence.”
The unions further praised Professor Charles Anosike for his unwavering leadership and commitment to the well-being of NiMet staff.
“Your relentless advocacy on our behalf reflects your deep commitment to this agency and its people. The resolution of this longstanding issue has not only eased the financial strain on our staff but has also reinforced our resolve to continue delivering top-tier meteorological services to the nation. We are inspired by your leadership and pledge to move forward with renewed hope, dedication, and enthusiasm,” he noted.
The unions concluded by extending their gratitude to all who played a role in resolving the issue.
“Your actions have made a profound difference in the lives of many, and for that, we are deeply appreciative,” they said.
