By Adewunmi Oluwaseun
Domestic airlines in Nigeria are grappling with severe financial losses following an indefinite strike by workers of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET).
Air Peace, the country’s leading carrier, was forced to suspend all flights on Wednesday, citing safety concerns over the lack of meteorological reports, crucial for safe flight operations during this rainy season.
The strike, which began abruptly on April 24, has left airlines scrambling to reschedule or cancel flights, putting the aviation sector at risk of financial ruin.
Without access to essential weather data like the Current Nowcast of Hazardous Weather (CNH), safe landings and take-offs have become impossible, leading to widespread disruption.
NIMET workers are protesting poor wages, including the non-payment of nine months’ arrears from the 2019 Minimum Wage Act, and failure by management to implement a revised scheme of service.
With the federal government’s promises yet to be fulfilled, workers are demanding a fairer salary structure and better welfare conditions.
The aviation industry is reeling from the strike, with industry experts condemning the timing and impact of the protests.
A Chief Operating Officer from one airline criticized the strike as unfair to both the public and the operators, noting that the disruption only benefits the union while costing airlines significant revenue and jeopardizing customer safety.
As the strike continues, the financial toll on airlines and the broader economy grows, raising questions about the long-term sustainability of this industrial action.
