The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) management has responded to a 14-day ultimatum issued by the Agency-based Unions, expressing surprise that the union’s letter was leaked to the media on the same day it was received.
The management, however, stated while the issues raised by the unions pre-dated the current administration and NiMet management under Professor Charles Anosike, the management has been engaging with the unions to resolve the issues, which include non-implementation of the new minimum wage, non-payment of arrears, and refusal to comply with ministerial directives.
The management considered the union’s threat to embark on industrial action as an act of sabotage and a threat to national security.
The unions had previously praised NiMet’s management for its labor-friendly disposition, making the sudden change in perspective surprising, said Dr. Nasiru Sani, Director, Human Resources Management and Administration at NiMet.
The management provided a point-by-point response to the union’s demands, stating that some issues are being handled by relevant authorities, while others are being addressed through ongoing reviews and negotiations.
The unions had on Wednesday – yesterday, January 22 – directed staff members of NiMet to proceed on strike from February 4th, 2025, if the leadership failed to respond positively to their demands.
The unions –Â the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE); Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical And Recreational Services Employees (AUPCCSTRSE) and Association Of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP) – alleged that NiMet’s management has refused to comply with ministerial directive for the review of conditions of service.
