Seplat Energy workers commence strike over welfare issues

Workers at Seplat Energy, Nigeria’s independent oil and gas producer, have commenced an indefinite strike.

Jerry Amah, the general secretary of Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), told TheCable that the Seplat workers’ arm of the association commenced the strike on Friday.

According to a Reuters report on Friday, the action taken by members of the PENGASSAN follows a breakdown in ⁠talks over a 2026 collective bargaining agreement and staff ​welfare issues.

The group said the action was “until further notice,” according to Reuters, quoting two letters.

PENGASSAN said its members would ​suspend most operations, including production reporting and export activities, ​while maintaining only crucial safety and power functions.

According to the report, the strike notice covers onshore ‌and ⁠offshore assets, joint‑venture operations, and offices nationwide from Friday.

Reuters said other less skilled workers are covered by a second union that is not on strike.

The report noted that the move could reduce output as global oil prices increase pressure on the country to optimise supply.

Seplat Energy did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

In 2025, PENGASSAN and Dangote refinery were embroiled in a labour dispute, which led to a strike that temporarily paralysed the downstream sector.