Seplat Energy workers launch indefinite strike, threatening Nigeria’s oil output
Workers at Seplat Energy, Nigeria’s largest independent oil and gas producer, have commenced an indefinite strike, raising concerns over potential disruptions to the country’s energy supply at a critical period.
The industrial action, which began on Friday, involves members of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria.
The union took the decision after negotiations over the 2026 collective bargaining agreement and other staff welfare issues reportedly broke down.
In letters addressed to the company’s Chief Executive Officer and reviewed by Reuters, PENGASSAN confirmed that the strike will continue “until further notice,” signalling a potentially prolonged period of disruption.
Seplat Energy has not yet responded to requests for comment.
The union stated that its members would suspend most operations, including production reporting and export activities, while maintaining only essential safety and power functions.
The strike spanned the company’s onshore and offshore assets, joint-venture operations, and offices nationwide.
Notably, another union representing junior staff is not participating in the industrial action.
Seplat Energy reported an average production of 131,506 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2025, representing roughly 7 per cent–9 per cent of Nigeria’s total liquid output.
With the company projecting production to rise to 155,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, any prolonged disruption could have a significant impact on national supply levels.
Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, is under growing pressure to increase crude output due to rising global oil prices, fiscal demands, and expanded refining capacity from the Dangote Refinery.
Energy analysts warned that stable production and export flows are vital to the country’s economy, and the ongoing strike could pose serious challenges if unresolved.
The coming days are expected to see close monitoring of Seplat’s production levels and potential negotiations between PENGASSAN and the company to end the industrial action.
