International carriers, including British Airways and Qatar Airways, also suspended operations in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulations
Air Peace Suspends Nationwide Flights Amid NiMet Workers’ Strike
Air Peace has canceled all flights across Nigeria due to a nationwide strike by Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) workers, which began Wednesday, disrupting local airport operations.
The strike, now in its second day, has left passengers stranded at major airports, including Nnamdi Azikiwe International in Abuja and Murtala Muhammed International in Lagos.
NiMet staff withdrew meteorological services, critical for safe flight operations, to protest poor welfare and low salaries.
Air Peace’s CEO, Allen Onyema, citing safety concerns, ordered an immediate suspension of all flights.
In a video, Onyema emphasized, “People’s lives, crew safety, and equipment are paramount. Suspend all flights until the strike ends.”
The airline’s Head of Corporate Communications, Ejike Ndiulo, confirmed the suspension on X, stating, “Due to unavailable hazardous weather reports, we’ve halted operations for safety. We appreciate your understanding.”
While Air Peace grounded its flights, other airlines like XEJET, Aero Contractors, and Ibom Air operated as scheduled at Lagos airport.
However, international carriers, including British Airways and Qatar Airways, also suspended operations in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulations.
NiMet workers, led by unions, decried their working conditions. A union member, Mr. John, told reporters, “Our salaries are as low as ₦470,000 for management staff, compared to ₦1.2 million at similar agencies. We provide critical services but can’t afford basic needs.” Union leaders highlighted health issues among staff, with 70% of forecasters reportedly suffering from high blood pressure due to stress.
Paul Ogohi, secretary of the Amalgamated Union, criticized some Nigerian airlines for flouting safety regulations, stating, “Local airlines are violating ICAO standards, unlike international carriers. This must stop.” Uzor Oluchi, National Deputy President of the National Union of Air Transport Employees, added, “NiMet staff are the lowest paid in aviation. A level 4 worker earns just ₦31,000, despite the federal minimum wage.”
To address the crisis, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, scheduled a meeting with NiMet unions for Thursday, April 24, 2025. NiMet management expressed optimism about resolving the issue, stating, “We’re committed to an amicable resolution and restoring normal services.” Read More
 regulations){kind=link}