Air Peace has suspended all flight operations across Nigeria with immediate effect, citing safety concerns arising from an ongoing strike by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
The strike, which began on Wednesday, has disrupted the provision of critical weather updates—particularly the Current Nowcast of Hazardous Weather (CNH) reports—essential for safe flight operations during the rainy season.
In a statement released by the airline’s Head of Corporate Communications, Ejike Ndiulo, Air Peace said it could not continue operations without the CNH reports, typically provided through airport control towers by NiMet. “Your safety is our top priority,” the statement read. “We appreciate your understanding and will share updates as the situation unfolds.”
Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema, in a video shared by Channels Television, was heard instructing his team to cancel all flights immediately, emphasizing the importance of safety amid worsening weather conditions. “If NiMet has not called off the strike, cancel every Air Peace flight now with immediate effect. People’s lives and the safety of our equipment and our crew are foremost,” he said.
The industrial action by NiMet workers, now in its second day, stems from grievances over poor remuneration and working conditions. Union members staged protests at major airports, including Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja and Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, carrying placards and calling attention to their demands.
Speaking to reporters, union representatives criticized the disparity in pay between NiMet staff and counterparts in other aviation agencies. They also raised concerns about staff welfare, citing inadequate salaries that do not meet basic living costs.
Paul Ogohi, Secretary of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees, condemned the continued operations by some domestic airlines despite the strike. “International airlines like British Airways and Qatar Airways have complied with regulations and suspended flights, but some local operators are ignoring safety protocols,” he said.
NiMet’s management has acknowledged the crisis and expressed willingness to resolve the impasse. A meeting with union leaders has been scheduled for today by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
As the strike continues, other domestic carriers such as XEJET, Aero Contractors, and Ibom Air were reported to have maintained operations on Wednesday. However, Air Peace has reiterated its position, placing safety above all else and urging customers to await further communication.
Nzubechukwu Eze.
