NiMet workers begin indefinite strike over poor working conditions
Staff of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) have commenced an indefinite industrial action, leading to the suspension of all meteorological services across the country. The strike, which began early Wednesday morning at 7:00 a.m., saw workers picketing around airport facilities, with some employees reportedly spending the night at NiMet offices to ensure a complete halt to operations.
One protesting staff member expressed frustration over inadequate remuneration and poor working conditions, highlighting that NiMet personnel are significantly underpaid compared to those in a similar government agency. “A management staff here earns around ₦470,000, while a counterpart in our sister agency takes home about ₦1.2 million,” the worker stated.
The employee further lamented that recent federal salary adjustments have not been extended to NiMet staff, despite their critical services spanning agro-meteorology, marine, and transport sectors. “Our welfare is so neglected that basic needs like transport, housing, and education are becoming unaffordable,” they added.
The workers are demanding improved welfare packages and equitable treatment, urging the government to review their conditions of service to enable them to perform their duties effectively. Paul Ogohi, Secretary of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), criticized the behavior of some domestic airlines amidst the strike and emphasized the growing pressure on NiMet employees under the current conditions.
Source: Vanguard newspaper
