NiMet, Unions Reach Breakthrough Agreement, Postpone Strike Indefinitely

A Defining Moment in NiMet’s Industrial Relations

In a move that underscores the power of dialogue in resolving labor disputes, the management of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and its in-house unions—National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies (SSASCGOC), and Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE)—successfully reached an agreement to postpone their planned industrial action indefinitely.

The strike, originally set to commence on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, was called off following extensive negotiations between the unions and NiMet management. During a media briefing held in Abuja on Monday, February 3, 2025, union representatives confirmed the decision, citing progress in discussions aimed at safeguarding workers’ welfare and operational stability.

Behind the Agreement: The Power of Negotiation

The breakthrough came after a series of high-level engagements where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to addressing key labor concerns. According to officials, the agreement, which was jointly signed by union leaders and NiMet management, included clear timelines for resolving outstanding grievances.

NiMet’s Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Charles Anosike, commended the collaborative spirit that led to the resolution, emphasizing the agency’s unwavering commitment to workers’ welfare within realistic economic conditions.“I appreciate the leadership of NiMet-based unions for their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue. While we acknowledge that all issues are not yet fully resolved, this agreement creates a pathway for continuous engagement and a structured resolution process,” Anosike stated.

The unions, represented by Comrade Benjamin Nnabue, President of NUATE, acknowledged the agency’s efforts but reminded the management that their demands remain non-negotiable in the long run.“We do not embark on strikes for the sake of it. Our priority is the well-being of NiMet staff. Though some of these issues predate the current administration, we expect tangible commitments from management moving forward,” Nnabue declared.

A Lesson in Social Dialogue

The intervention of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment was pivotal in breaking the deadlock. Mr. Olusoga Adebayo, the ministry’s Director of Labour, lauded both parties for their willingness to compromise and engage in social dialogue rather than confrontation.“This resolution demonstrates the effectiveness of negotiation in industrial relations. With continued communication, NiMet and its unions can prevent future disputes from escalating,” Adebayo remarked.

The agreement also acknowledged that miscommunication had previously fueled tensions between both parties. As part of the resolution, both sides committed to enhancing consultation mechanisms and engagement platforms to prevent future conflicts.

Looking Ahead: A Partnership for Progress

While the indefinite suspension of the strike is seen as a victory for industrial peace, both NiMet and the unions recognize that the real work lies ahead. The agency has pledged to expedite approvals from the federal government to address critical staff concerns, while the unions remain watchful to ensure commitments translate into concrete actions.

As a gesture of goodwill, union leaders have assured that industrial harmony will be maintained, provided NiMet upholds its end of the agreement. The resolution marks a defining moment for the agency, demonstrating that effective labor relations hinge not just on demands, but on strategic engagement and mutual respect.

For NiMet staff and stakeholders, the postponement of the strike offers a temporary reprieve—but also a reminder that industrial peace is an ongoing process that requires transparency, accountability, and proactive management.

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