The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has confirmed it will proceed with a nationwide strike starting today, despite last-minute efforts by the Federal Government to avert the industrial action.
Speaking on Sunday, NUPENG leadership said the decision to go ahead with the strike followed what it described as “unfulfilled promises and a persistent lack of commitment” by the government to address critical issues affecting the oil and gas sector, as well as the welfare of its members.
The union, which represents thousands of workers across Nigeria’s vital petroleum industry, had issued a seven-day ultimatum last week, demanding urgent action on several grievances. These include poor working conditions, alleged anti-labour practices by some oil companies, unpaid salaries, and the failure to implement agreements previously reached with the government.
Despite an emergency meeting held over the weekend involving top government officials and union leaders, NUPENG President Williams Akporeha said the union had “no confidence” that the government’s pledges would translate into meaningful action.
We have listened to the government’s appeals and interventions, but we cannot ignore the continued suffering of our members,” Mr Akporeha said. “Until we see concrete implementation of our demands, the strike will proceed as planned.”
The strike is expected to disrupt fuel distribution and supply chains across the country, raising fears of potential fuel shortages and economic setbacks in a nation already grappling with inflation and a weakening currency.
Energy analysts warn that even a short-term halt in operations could have significant ripple effects, especially in major cities where fuel scarcity often triggers panic buying and price hikes.
In a statement late Sunday, the Ministry of Labour and Employment urged the union to reconsider its position, citing ongoing dialogue and a commitment to address the issues raised. “We call on NUPENG to exercise restraint in the interest of national stability and economic recovery,” the statement read.
NUPENG, however, maintains that it will only return to the negotiation table after seeing tangible progress on its demands.
As the strike begins, Nigerians brace for possible disruptions in fuel availability and transportation, with motorists already queuing at filling stations in anticipation of shortages.
