Nigeria’s aviation sector experienced a dramatic shift this week, marked by both disruptive challenges and strategic progress. At Move9ja, we’re closely following these developments to help travelers stay informed and plan ahead with ease.
Weathering the Storm: NiMet Strikes Ground Flights Nationwide
The Nigerian aviation landscape was rocked midweek as members of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) embarked on an industrial action, significantly impacting air travel across the country. As a direct result of the strike, several flights were delayed or cancelled at key airports including Lagos, Abuja, and Kano.
Airlines and passengers alike felt the brunt of the disruption. While XEJET, Aero Contractors, and Ibom Air managed to maintain scheduled operations in Lagos, Air Peace was forced to suspend all flights nationwide. The airline attributed this drastic move to the unavailability of critical weather updates, particularly the CNH (hazardous weather) reports required for safe landings.
In a statement released on its official X handle, Air Peace reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety, emphasizing that flight operations would remain on hold until the strike is resolved.
The situation unfolded rapidly. At Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the strike commenced at 7:00 am on Wednesday with NiMet staff members enforcing a complete operational halt. In Kano, many passengers were stranded as union protests over the non-implementation of the new national minimum wage disrupted flight schedules.
Understanding the magnitude of the disruption, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, called for an urgent meeting with protesting union members. The meeting, scheduled for Thursday, aims to address grievances and seek a quick resolution.
Despite the nationwide challenges, airlines and government bodies are working collaboratively to minimize passenger inconvenience.
With Move9ja, travelers can stay updated with real-time flight alerts and make swift changes to bookings, ensuring less stress during unpredictable events like this.
Flying Forward: Overland Airways Takes Off at Minna’s Upgraded International Airport
In contrast to the turbulence experienced at major airports, a major leap forward was recorded in Niger State. On Wednesday, the federal government officially inaugurated flight operations of Overland Airways at the newly reconstructed Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna.
The historic event was led by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who lauded the strategic importance of the facility. Positioned as an alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, the Minna airport is poised to play a critical role in regional air travel.
Plans are already underway to fully equip the airport with customs, immigration, NDLEA, and security personnel in anticipation of emergency diversions and routine operations. Governor Umaru Bago, whose administration has shown a strong commitment to infrastructure development, emphasized the airport’s potential to drive economic growth, particularly through agriculture.
Spanning 3,000 hectares, the airport is not just about flights—it’s evolving into a multifaceted aviation hub. Key ongoing projects include a state-of-the-art terminal, a fuel dump, and a 500-unit aviation estate. Additionally, a Hilton five-star hotel and 1,000 kilometres of supporting roads are under construction. Governor Bago also revealed that 180 containers are expected to arrive via ship, further cementing the airport’s capability to handle global-standard logistics and operations.
Speaking at the launch, the Founder and Managing Director of Overland Airways, Captain Edward Boyo, reaffirmed the airline’s dedication to providing top-tier service and called for stakeholder support as the airport begins operations.
Move9ja is excited to list Minna’s new route soon, giving travelers even more flight options across Nigeria with the same seamless booking experience they trust.
Final Thoughts
This week’s developments highlight the contrasting dynamics within Nigeria’s aviation sector. While industrial unrest emphasizes the urgent need for government and labour alignment, the opening of Minna’s international airport presents a bright spot of progress, infrastructure expansion, and investment potential.
At Move9ja, we believe in connecting you not just to destinations, but to the pulse of Nigeria’s aviation. Whether you’re navigating delays or discovering new airports, we’re here to help you #MoveWithEase.
