BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
To reaffirm its dedication to staff welfare and industrial harmony, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has addressed concerns raised by aviation unions over pending labour issues while urging a return to dialogue as tensions mount over a proposed resumption of industrial action.
In a formal response to the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), through Nasiru Sani, Director, Human Resource Management and Administration at NiMet, the management reiterated that significant strides have been made in implementing agreements reached on January 28, 2025, contrary to claims of inaction.
Sani acknowledged delays in the implementation of certain aspects of the agreement but attributed the holdup to processes requiring approvals from other government agencies.
“What is within our purview has been executed,” the agency emphasized, adding that engagement with relevant ministries and departments is ongoing.
On the much-anticipated Conditions of Service, NiMet clarified that not only had the document been transmitted to the Ministry for processing, but copies were also distributed to union representatives.
The agency condemned insinuations of foul play, stressing that the Director-General had even enriched the document with additional allowances beyond what was negotiated.
Regarding financial matters such as the 25–35% wage award, outstanding arrears from the 2019 minimum wage, and omissions in salary payments, the agency confirmed that approvals had been secured from the Budget Office.
However, disbursement awaits fund release—a process beyond management’s control.
NiMet also addressed the contentious issue of salary relativity, noting that no official documentation exists to support previous directives aligning NiMet’s structure with that of NAMA.
Still, engagements with the Honourable Minister have been positive, with ongoing efforts to improve staff remuneration.
On training and capacity development, the agency highlighted its proactive steps in instituting a structured
“Continuous Staff Training” program since 2024, aimed at ensuring all staff receive relevant development opportunities—a departure from the selective practices of the past.
The agency further clarified its position on the so-called “Peculiar Allowance,” pointing to official communication from the Salaries, Income, and Wages Commission, which approved a set of alternative allowances specifically tailored for NiMet, including Professional, Proficiency, Hazard, and Wardrobe Allowances.
NiMet expressed dismay over the sudden call for industrial action, noting that it circumvented standard labour protocols, including the statutory seven-day notice.
“This abrupt move undermines not only management’s efforts but also the Honourable Minister’s unwavering support and President Bola Tinubu’s agenda for sectoral growth and national development,” the statement read.
The agency reaffirmed its transparency and commitment to fulfilling all obligations, including payments of subsistence benefits and quarterly Conditions of Service allowances.
It also revealed that approval had been secured for an upward review of its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) share from sister agencies such as NAMA, NCAA, and FAAN—an initiative aimed at boosting staff welfare.
In a conciliatory tone, NiMet called for a return to the negotiation table. “Our doors remain open to dialogue,” inviting union leaders to a renewed round of discussions aimed at resolving lingering issues amicably and upholding a culture of mutual respect and collaboration,” the statement concluded.
