Blackout Looms as Electricity Workers Mobilise for Nationwide Strike

The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has ramped up mobilisation for a potential nationwide strike after its 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government expired without resolution.

In a January 26, 2026 letter to the Minister of Power, the union accused distribution companies (DISCOs) and generation companies (GENCOs) of anti-labour practices, wage violations, and failure to remit deducted PAYE taxes and pension contributions.

With no concrete action taken, union sources say preparations for industrial action across the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) are in top gear. A strike, they warn, could disrupt electricity generation and distribution nationwide.

Although the Minister of Labour reportedly intervened and proposed a meeting, the dispute was said to have been redirected to the power ministry. Nearly two weeks later, union leaders claim no meeting has been convened, fuelling frustration among workers.

“We demand the immediate resolution of all these anti-labour issues. Otherwise, we will not hesitate to employ any legitimate labour action suitable for the situation. This is not a threat,” the union warned.

In a letter signed by Acting General Secretary Igwebike Dominic, NUEE said conditions have worsened more than 12 years after power sector privatisation. The union accused companies of refusing to negotiate collective agreements and failing to implement the 2025 National Minimum Wage Act.

It also alleged denial of workers’ rights to unionise, non-remittance of union dues, and prolonged failure to remit statutory deductions. In some Discos, including Kaduna and Kano, pension deductions have reportedly gone unpaid for up to 82 months.

NUEE further decried harassment and intimidation of workers, naming companies such as Ikeja Electric and Egbin Power Plc. Despite repeated tariff hikes and rising revenues, the union said workers have seen no promotions, salary increases, or improved conditions.