Electricity consumers across Nigeria may soon face extended power outages as members of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) commenced a nationwide strike on Wednesday over unresolved labour issues with the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).
In a circular signed by Acting General Secretary Dominic Igwebike, the union instructed its members across the country to withdraw their services indefinitely, citing persistent neglect of workers’ welfare and operational challenges by TCN management.
The union explained that the strike followed the expiration of an earlier ultimatum issued to TCN, accusing the company of failing to address critical concerns, including poor staff welfare, lack of essential work tools, and violations of labour rights.
“The management of TCN has continuously treated these pressing issues with levity, showing little or no regard for the dedicated workforce,” the statement read.
“We can no longer stand by while our rights are trampled upon and the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry continues to deteriorate. In light of this, we have no choice but to withdraw our services,” it added.
Among the union’s demands are:
- Full implementation of the National Minimum Wage
- An end to the casualisation of workers
- Provision of necessary tools and materials
- Payment of salaries owed since April 2025
- Supply of operational vehicles and Personal Protective Equipment (last issued in 2021)
- Resolution of outstanding issues linked to the unbundling of TCN
- Settlement of overdue retirement benefits
The strike directive, which took immediate effect, calls for full participation by electricity workers nationwide, raising concerns over widespread blackouts in the hours or days ahead.
This action comes less than 18 months after a similar shutdown in June 2024, which severely disrupted power supply across multiple states and led to emergency talks with the Federal Government.
Efforts to reach TCN spokesperson Ndidi Mbah for comment were unsuccessful, as she did not respond to phone calls or messages at the time of this report.
The strike adds to the growing challenges in Nigeria’s power sector, which continues to struggle with inadequate generation, decaying infrastructure, and repeated industrial actions—despite years of privatisation and government-led reform promises.
