20 Dec 2017 | 10:17 AM UTC
Nigeria: Oil workers call for strike December 18
Major oil worker union announces indefinite strike to start on December 18 after talks stall; fuel shortages and associated protests may occur
Event
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) union announced on Friday, December 15, that it intends to launch an indefinite strike after talks with Neconde Energy Limited stalled. PENGASSAN said that the strike will start on the night of Monday, December 18; however, an emergency Central Working Committee meeting will be held earlier in the day. Union leaders said that workers across the country have been put on alert to shut down operations if talks do not progress. The strike may cause further fuel shortages throughout the country. Associated protests may also occur.
Context
Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, the Minister of Petroleum Resources, attempted to broker a deal between PENGASSAN and Neconde Energy Limited on Friday, but failed to break the stalemate. PENGASSAN has accused the oil company of wrongfully terminating employees who belong to the union. The group is calling for the workers to be recalled.
Fuel shortages are not uncommon in Nigeria, and have been primarily caused in the past few years by the inability of fuel importers to buy refined petroleum products. These periodic shortages have impeded commerce and economic growth, leading to widespread power outages among businesses that use petroleum-based generators, air traffic disruptions, and long lines at gas stations. Protests in response to fuel shortages sometimes occur.
Advice
Individuals in Nigeria area advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests or demonstrations as a precaution, and replenish fuel supplies whenever possible.
Generally speaking, the security environment in Nigeria is complex and is particularly concerning in the northeast and extreme south of the country due to the presence of armed groups, high crime rates, and the risk of kidnapping. Some Western governments consequently advise against travel to certain areas of the northeast (e.g. states of Borno, Yobe, Gombe, Bauchi, and Jigawa as well as parts of Kano and Adamawa states) and the southern Niger Delta region (e.g. states of Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers). Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to these areas.
