Nationwide Blackout Looms as Electricity Workers Begin Strike

Nigeria is bracing for possible widespread power outages as the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has directed its members across the country to withdraw their services indefinitely.

The industrial action, which took effect on Wednesday, is expected to disrupt the national grid and plunge many parts of the country into darkness.

The union accuses the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) of neglecting key welfare and operational issues despite repeated complaints and ultimatums.

Among the grievances cited are unpaid salaries dating back to April 2025, inadequate work tools, lack of personal protective equipment, non-provision of operational vehicles, and the continued use of casual and contract staff. NUEE also alleged that retired staff have been denied benefits, further worsening the discontent.

Union leaders said the decision to embark on strike was not taken lightly, but insisted that the TCN has “handled these issues with kid gloves” and failed to respond meaningfully to their concerns. They stressed that the action would continue until concrete steps are taken to address workers’ demands.

The strike raises fears of a nationwide blackout, as grid operators and other critical electricity workers are central to the running of the transmission system. Past strikes by NUEE have led to significant power disruptions, including one in June 2024 that caused outages in multiple states.

The federal government and the management of TCN are yet to issue a formal response, but negotiations may be required to avert prolonged disruption. Meanwhile, electricity consumers across Nigeria are being warned to prepare for possible power cuts if the deadlock persists.