The Federal Government has paid off the outstanding minimum wage arrears owed to the staff of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET). The arrears, covering a period of three years and nine months, had been a source of tension between NiMET’s management, employees, and labor unions since 2019.
NiMET’s Director General, Professor Charles Anosike, expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for authorizing the payment, which has finally resolved the long-standing issue.
Labor unions had initially planned a strike set to begin on May 20, 2024, but this action was averted following a special session on May 19, 2024. The session, organized by the House Committee on Aviation Technology and chaired by Hon. Abiodun Isiaq Akinlade, brought together NiMET management and union representatives to reach an agreement.
Professor Anosike praised President Tinubu’s worker-friendly approach, noting that although the issue of the unpaid arrears predated his administration, it was resolved under his leadership. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Chairmen and members of the House and Senate Committees on Aviation for their roles in addressing the matter.
In his statement, Professor Anosike expressed hope that NiMET staff and unions would show their appreciation through dedicated work, ensuring that the agency continues to fulfill its mandate effectively.
“Mr. President has demonstrated once again that he is a worker-friendly leader. The issue of the unpaid 45-month wage arrears predates this administration, but still, Mr. President has cleared the outstanding,” Professor Anosike said.
“I also want to thank the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the Chairman of the House Committee on Aviation Technology, Rt. Hon. Abiodun Isiaq Akinlade, and the members of the Committee for their sacrifices and timely intervention. Additionally, I extend my thanks to the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, Sen. Abdulfatai Buhari, and the members of the Committee. We expect that staff and the unions will show their appreciation by working hard and staying focused to ensure that NiMet continues to achieve its mandate,” he added.
