Blackout Looms as Nigerian Electricity Workers Begin Strike

A major power crisis is looming in Nigeria as electricity workers under the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) have gone on strike. The workers, who are part of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), were directed to stop work immediately after the expiration of an ultimatum issued to TCN management. The union announced the decision in a statement signed by its acting general secretary, Dominic Igwebike, on Wednesday.

The strike comes as a result of several unresolved issues between the workers and TCN management. The union listed complaints including the non-payment of salaries since April 2025, failure to implement the national minimum wage, continued use of casual workers, lack of working tools and materials, no operational vehicles, and the absence of personal protective equipment (PPE) since 2021. The union also expressed concern over the recent unbundling of TCN into two entities the Independent System Operator (ISO) and the Transmission Service Provider (TSP) which they say has created further uncertainty for staff. They also cited non-payment of retirement benefits as part of their grievances.

In the statement, the union accused TCN management of handling these serious issues carelessly and without any clear plan. They said the management has shown a lack of respect for the hardworking staff and that they can no longer remain silent while their rights are being ignored. As a result, the union said it had no choice but to withdraw its services, and all members were urged to comply fully with the strike order until further notice.

Although the strike had already begun, checks on the national power grid as of 5:30 p.m. on Thursday showed that it was still operating, with 4,411 megawatts being distributed to electricity companies. The top power producers at the time were Engineer Power with 601MW, Kainji Hydro with 473MW, and Shiroro Hydro with 398MW. However, experts warn that if the strike continues, it could lead to a complete shutdown of electricity supply across the country.

The strike adds pressure to a sector already facing challenges. In April 2025, the Nigerian government announced the unbundling of TCN into two separate bodies, a move meant to improve efficiency in the power sector. But for the electricity workers, the reform has brought more questions than answers especially with basic staff needs still unmet. As the strike continues, many Nigerians fear long hours or even days without power, while hoping for a swift resolution to the dispute.

Source: Premium Times