Blackout looms as electricity workers begin strike

The nation is going to face serious electricity shutdown as workers in the sector on Wednesday commenced strike to press home their demands.

The National Union of Electricity Employees are having a running battle with the Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN which has not been resolved for a long time.

A circular issued by the Acting General Secretary, Dominic Igwebike which was addressed to the Electricity Employees directed the commencement of strike with immediate effect, insisting that the strike would not be called off until the management addresses their long-standing welfare and operation concerns.

The NUEE said, the strike became unavoidable following expiration of an ultimatum issued to TCN, accusing the company of failing to address grievances bordering on poor staff welfare, non-provision of essential tools, and disregard for workers’ rights.

“Unfortunately, the TCN management has decided to handle these issues with kid gloves and with a lack of regard for the hardworking staff of TCN,” the notice read in part.

“We cannot continue to fold our arms while we watch our rights being violated and the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry going down the drain. To this end, the Union is compelled to withdraw its services”, it added.

The union listed its demands to include, “Implementation of the National Minimum Wage, end to casualisation of workers, provision of working tools and materials, payment of staff salaries owed since April 2025.

“Provision of operational vehicles, supply of Personal Protective Equipment, last provided in 2021, resolution of issues arising from the unbundling of TCN and payment of outstanding retirement benefits.”