Nigerians may soon experience power outages as the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has embarked on an indefinite strike. The move, announced on Wednesday, follows the federal government’s failure to meet several long-standing demands, including the implementation of the national minimum wage, regularisation of casual workers, and unpaid staff entitlements.
In a statement signed by the union’s Acting General Secretary, Dominic Igwebike, NUEE explained that the strike became necessary after the expiration of its ultimatum to the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). According to the union, TCN’s management has shown “no seriousness” in addressing workers’ welfare issues and the deteriorating state of the electricity sector.
NUEE insists it cannot watch the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) collapse due to what it described as poor leadership. “It is unfortunate that TCN has handled these matters with kid gloves and without a clear roadmap,” the statement read. The union directed all members nationwide to withdraw their services until management meets its obligations.
This is not the first time the electricity workers have downed tools. In June 2024, a similar strike led to a nationwide blackout, plunging businesses and households into hardship. With this fresh action, Nigerians are bracing for another round of power supply disruptions.
Meanwhile, TCN spokesperson Ndidi Mbah has yet to respond to inquiries as of press time, leaving the public uncertain about how soon the standoff will be resolved.
