Workers at Seplat Energy, one of Nigeria’s independent oil and gas producers, have commenced an indefinite strike over unresolved welfare issues and stalled negotiations.
Jerry Amah, general secretary of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), confirmed that the industrial action by the company’s workers’ union arm began on Friday.
The strike followed a breakdown in talks over the 2026 collective bargaining agreement, with disputes centred on staff welfare. The union described the action as continuing “until further notice.”
PENGASSAN stated that its members would suspend most operations, including production reporting and export activities, while maintaining only critical safety and power functions.
The action affects onshore and offshore assets, joint venture operations, and offices nationwide.
Reports indicate that another union representing lower-skilled workers is not participating in the strike.
The development could impact oil output at a time when rising global prices are putting pressure on Nigeria to optimise supply.
Seplat Energy has not yet responded to requests for comment.
The dispute follows a previous standoff in 2025 between PENGASSAN and Dangote refinery, which led to a strike that temporarily disrupted the downstream sector before it was eventually suspended.