The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) on Thursday directed its members at the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to immediately withdraw services, effectively launching a nationwide strike in response to unresolved grievances with management.
The action, announced in a union letter dated September 24, 2025, comes after the expiration of an ultimatum demanding improvements in staff welfare and operational conditions.
In the strongly worded directive signed by Acting General Secretary, Dominic Igwebike, the union accused TCN management of treating critical issues “with kid gloves” and showing a “lack of regards for the hard-working staff.”
The letter, which was obtained by our Correspondent in Abuja, highlighted a series of longstanding problems that have plagued the workforce, warning that continued inaction could lead to the downfall of Nigeria’s Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).
Key demands outlined in the communication include: “Implementation of the National Minimum Wage; An end to the casualization of workers; Provision of essential working tools and materials; Payment of staff salaries, which have reportedly been withheld since April 2025.
Supply of operational vehicles; Distribution of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), unavailable since 2021; Resolution of issues stemming from the unbundling of TCN.
Payment of retirement benefits”
“We cannot continue to fold our arms while we watch our rights being vehemently violated and Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) going down the drain,” the letter states. “To this end, the Union is compelled to withdraw its services.”
Members are instructed to comply fully with the withdrawal of services until TCN management demonstrates a commitment to addressing these obligations.
The directive was copied to all zonal heads, with NUEE President Adebiyi Opeyemi Adeyeye and General Secretary Joe Ajaero listed at the bottom of the document.
The strike could disrupt power transmission across Nigeria, potentially exacerbating the country’s ongoing electricity challenges, including frequent grid collapses and supply shortages.
TCN, responsible for managing the national grid, has not yet issued a public response to the union’s action.
This development follows years of tension in the sector, where workers have repeatedly raised concerns over poor working conditions and delayed payments amid economic pressures.
Industry observers note that similar disputes in the past have led to temporary blackouts and negotiations involving government intervention.
As of this report, union representatives were unavailable for further comment, but the letter emphasized the need for immediate resolution to restore normal operations.
(Independent)
