Nigerians face a potential nationwide blackout after the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) began a strike on Wednesday. The industrial action stems from the non‑implementation of the national minimum wage, the casualisation of workers and other unresolved grievances. The union’s decision follows the expiry of an ultimatum issued to the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) management, which, according to NUEE, has failed to address key issues such as unpaid staff salaries since April 2025, a lack of operational vehicles and the non‑provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) since 2021.
In a notice signed by Acting General Secretary Dominic Igwebike, NUEE warned that it could no longer stand by as the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) deteriorates. The notice listed eight grievances, including the non‑implementation of the national minimum wage, casualisation of workers and non‑payment of retirement benefits. Consequently, the union instructed its members to withdraw their services until TCN management meets its obligations to the workforce.
This is not the union’s first strike; a similar action in June 2024 disrupted electricity supply. TCN spokesperson Ndidi Mbah has not responded to requests for comment. As the strike continues, Nigerians brace for possible power outages, and the impact on the already fragile electricity supply could be significant. The NUEE’s notice stresses the need for immediate action by TCN management, and with union services withdrawn, the fate of Nigeria’s electricity supply hangs in the balance. The situation is being closely monitored, with further developments expected in the coming days.
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