NiMet Staff Receive Long-Awaited Minimum Wage After Strike and Delays
Workers at the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) have finally received payment for the new minimum wage and salary adjustments, following months of delay and a nationwide strike action. The long-awaited development came after consistent pressure from unions and direct intervention by the Minister of Aviation.
A senior official from the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP) confirmed that the new wage structure, along with an across-the-board salary increment of 25–35 per cent, was implemented in May. However, arrears that were expected at the end of June have now been pushed to the end of July due to ongoing system upgrades on the IPPIS platform.
The official credited the Aviation Minister’s decisive action for the breakthrough. “It was the minister that called the DG directly and asked them to go to the Accountant General’s office and make sure the payment came through. Fortunately, it happened that way,” the official explained.
What was the new wage structure for NiMet staff?
According to union sources, the new minimum wage was set at ₦70,000, with salary raises ranging from 25% to 35%, depending on job levels. Junior staff enjoyed the higher end of the increase, with some levels receiving as much as a 33% raise, while senior staff had lower percentage adjustments.
The process began with a subsistence allowance, followed by the full implementation of the wage increment. “The lower your level, the higher the raise. Each grade received its own percentage increase,” the official stated.
The unions noted that other pending issues are also being addressed. The new condition of service has already been signed by NiMet Director-General Charles Anosike and forwarded to the Minister for approval by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission. “Progress is ongoing,” the official assured.
NiMet staff had gone on strike in May 2024, protesting 45 months of unpaid arrears and poor working conditions. Several aviation unions including NUATE, AUPCTRE, and ANAP, issued a 14-day ultimatum, demanding immediate payment and better welfare.
Although salary adjustments have now been made, the promised arrears remain delayed. “We were expecting it in June, but due to the IPPIS system upgrade, it will now come by July,” the official explained.
The unions are continuing to monitor developments to ensure all agreements are fulfilled. While progress has been made, workers are still watching to see if the remaining issues, including arrears and full welfare implementation, are resolved promptly.
In summary, NiMet staff are finally experiencing some relief with the new wage structure in place. But as technical issues delay arrears payments and other staff concerns linger, satisfaction remains a work in progress.
