The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has intensified mobilisation of its members across the country ahead of a possible nationwide strike following the expiration of its 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government.
In a letter dated January 26, 2026, addressed to the Minister of Power, the union issued a strike notice, accusing power sector employers—particularly distribution companies (DISCOs) and generation companies (GENCOs)—of widespread anti-labour practices. The allegations include wage violations, failure to remit deducted Pay As You Earn (PAYE) taxes, non-payment of pension contributions, and refusal to implement collective agreements.
With no resolution reached after the ultimatum lapsed, union sources confirmed that leadership has begun ramping up mobilisation across the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). The union warned that industrial action could commence at any moment, potentially crippling electricity generation and distribution nationwide.
Sources disclosed that the Minister of Labour and Employment intervened in the dispute about two weeks ago and scheduled a meeting for last week. However, it was gathered that the Minister of Power insisted the matter fell under his ministry’s jurisdiction. Nearly two weeks after that development, union officials claim no meeting has been convened by the power ministry.
Union leaders expressed frustration over what they described as government inaction, alleging that the delay has heightened tensions within the sector. As a result, mobilisation efforts have intensified across power stations and distribution networks in preparation for possible strike action next week.
In its notice, NUEE warned that it would not hesitate to deploy legitimate labour actions if its demands are not met, stressing that the warning should not be interpreted as an empty threat.
Industry observers caution that a nationwide strike by electricity workers could have significant economic consequences, worsening existing energy supply challenges faced by businesses and households.
In the earlier correspondence signed by NUEE’s Acting General Secretary, Igwebike Dominic, the union lamented deteriorating working conditions more than 12 years after the privatisation of the power sector and accused employers of failing to implement the 2025 National Minimum Wage Act and its consequential adjustments.
