Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, is currently meeting with the Nigeria Meteorology Agency’s (NiMet) striking workers in Abuja to settle the issue.
The workers’ strike, which has nearly brought the sector to its knees, began at midnight on Tuesday, after the unions repeatedly warned NiMet’s management of failing to keep pledges made to them to bridge some gaps in their welfare.
Following the strike’s impact on Wednesday, some airlines, including XEJET, Aero Contractors, and Ibom Air, continued to operate as planned; however, Air Peace operations were grounded.
In a message posted on its X account, Air Peace claimed that following the NiMet staff strike, it has ceased operations until the strike issue is resolved.
The statement which was signed by Ejike Ndiulo, Head of Corporate Communications of the airline, reads, “Due to the ongoing NiMet strike and the unavailability of CNH (hazardous weather) reports required for safe landings, Air Peace has suspended all flight operations nationwide until the strike is over.
“Your safety is our top priority. We appreciate your understanding and will share updates as the situation unfolds.”
Chronicle NG reports that on Thursday, disruptions became more evident as passengers whose flights had been disrupted were seen sitting at different terminals of the Lagos airport waiting for aircraft to pick them up.
Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, said on Twitter at about 1:30 p.m. on Thursday that the minister was meeting with the staff.
He said, “The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, is presently meeting with the striking unions, DG NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo and other stakeholders to resolve the issues.”
