Air Peace has temporarily halted all its flight services across Nigeria as a result of an indefinite strike by staff of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). The industrial action, which commenced at midnight on Tuesday, April 22, 2024, has disrupted essential services at airports nationwide.
The strike action followed the expiration of an ultimatum issued to NiMet management on April 16, 2025, after unresolved labour disputes. The workers, through their union, instructed all members to withdraw services at airports, leading to disruptions in aviation operations across the country.
In a statement signed by Dr Ejike Ndiulo, the airline’s Head of Corporate Communications, Air Peace confirmed its decision to suspend flights from Wednesday, April 23. The airline attributed its decision to the absence of crucial QNH (hazardous weather) reports necessary for safe landings.
Air Peace explained that “due to the ongoing NiMet strike and the unavailability of QNH (hazardous weather) reports required for safe landings, Air Peace has suspended all flight operations nationwide until the strike is over.”
The airline also expressed appreciation to customers for their patience and understanding while assuring them of regular updates as the situation progresses.
Before taking this decision, Air Peace had issued a cautionary advisory to passengers, indicating that the strike by NiMet staff could result in unavoidable delays and cancellations within its route network.
Furthermore, the airline emphasized that it is actively “closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with relevant parties to reduce the impact on customers’ travel plans.”
This disruption comes shortly after Air Peace announced a separate suspension of its operations to the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu. That suspension, disclosed less than a week ago, was prompted by safety concerns at the airport.
The ongoing nationwide strike by NiMet employees stems from grievances related to unresolved welfare issues. According to reports, employees have raised concerns over unpaid financial entitlements, non-implementation of agreed allowances, and outstanding payments tied to the 2019 minimum wage adjustments.
In addition, workers accused the management of withholding vital documents, neglecting to address missing names in past disbursements, and abandoning crucial training programmes while prioritizing executive retreats.
As The PUNCH reports, numerous air travellers have been stranded at various airports across the country, with several flights either cancelled or delayed due to the disruption caused by the strike.
