Employees of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) began an indefinite strike on Wednesday, completely stopping weather-related services across the country.
The strike officially started at 7:00 a.m., with staff protesting at airport premises, holding placards, and even sleeping overnight at NiMet offices to ensure a total shutdown.
One protesting worker said their salaries and general welfare were far below those of colleagues in a similar agency.
While NiMet’s management staff reportedly earn around ₦470,000, those in the sister agency receive up to ₦1.2 million.
They claimed they are left out of any government salary adjustments, despite offering crucial services such as agricultural and marine weather forecasts, as well as aviation support.
The worker also noted that many can’t afford basic expenses like transportation, rent, or school fees due to their poor pay.
Another concern raised was the harsh working conditions that have led to widespread health issues among staff.
Reports suggest nearly 70% of NiMet’s weather forecasters have high blood pressure, and many suffer from vision problems due to constant monitoring of airfields.
Workers said some have had to take out loans just to get by.
Paul Ogohi, secretary of the workers’ union, criticised some local airlines for not following international safety standards, unlike foreign airlines like British Airways and Qatar Airways, which have suspended operations in response to the strike.
He stated that local violations of aviation safety standards are unacceptable.
He also appealed to the Minister of Aviation to urgently address the situation, stating that while changes are occurring in other sectors, NiMet continues to be neglected.
In response, Michael Achimugu from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority reassured the public that safety remains a top priority.
He said talks with the unions are planned and that another agency is currently providing temporary support, but if any safety concerns arise, flights will not be allowed to take off.
Protesting 470k! Others earn as low as 120k in Ministries, departments and parastatals starting from Grade Level 8 same country. Injustices everywhere and ranking injustices.