Nigerian Meteorological Agency to Halt Aviation Operations Over NAMA’s Non-compliance
The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (Nimet) has announced its intention to suspend aviation operations on July 1, 2026, due to the Nigerian Airspace Management Authority’s (NAMA) failure to comply with a ministerial directive regarding a 10% remittance of fees. This action comes after ongoing frustrations surrounding NAMA’s lack of adherence to governmental requests, particularly from the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo.
The Nimet Trade Union Joint Action Committee (NJAC) expressed its grievances in a letter dated June 26, 2026, which was signed by secretaries from three unions: Mr. Hishak Ibrahim (AUPCTRE), Mr. Okerafor Romeo (ANAP), and Mr. Ogidi John (SSASCGOC). The letter cited reference number JAC/015/AUPCTRE/ANAP/SSASCGOC and specifically called out NAMA’s management for not following through on the minister’s instructions.
NJAC highlighted that Minister Keyamo intervened to facilitate compliance, noting that NAMA has consistently neglected to remit 10% of the fees collected from in-flight and overflight services to Nimet. Despite the minister’s clear instructions for NAMA management to fulfill their financial obligations within 48 hours, the union reported no payment has been made.
The union further alleged that NAMA’s actions have severely impeded operational activities at the airfield, impacting not only operations but also the welfare of Nimet personnel. The ongoing financial disputes have rendered the necessary support for air traffic management and meteorological services inadequate.
As a response to NAMA’s continued inaction, NJAC convened a meeting on June 15, 2026, where it was resolved to inform the Minister about NAMA’s non-compliance. The union stipulated that if the situation remains unchanged, Nimet employees would proceed with a nationwide strike within one week to voice their demands for compliance and action.
In line with this resolution, NJAC plans to mobilize its members for protests at Nimet offices across the country on July 1, 2026. This decision underscores the growing frustration within the organization as it seeks to address the critical financial obligations necessary for operational effectiveness.
