Workers of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) have commenced an indefinite strike over welfare and administrative issues, leading to the shutdown of the commission’s offices across the country.
The industrial action began on Monday after a series of negotiations between union representatives and the commission’s management failed to produce an agreement on key demands.
Despite the strike, operational staff responsible for critical activities were exempted from the action pending the outcome of ongoing discussions between management and labour leaders.
Sources familiar with the matter said the workers decided to down tools after several meetings aimed at resolving long-standing concerns over staff welfare, promotions, training opportunities, and institutional governance ended without a breakthrough.
Among the major issues raised by the workers is a demand for a review of the current cost-of-collection structure within the petroleum regulatory framework.
The employees specifically questioned the one per cent allocation to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), arguing that the arrangement has weakened the NUPRC’s financial strength and operational efficiency.
The workers also accused the commission of adopting what they described as an operator-style approach to regulation, which they believe has created overlaps in responsibilities across the petroleum industry.
In addition, the striking workers are demanding remuneration that aligns with salary structures obtainable in the oil and gas industry.
They further alleged that management has failed to adequately address issues related to staff development, career progression, and capacity building for both junior and senior employees.
Another point of contention is the commission’s approach to staff training. According to sources, workers are dissatisfied with management’s preference for local capacity-building programmes over overseas training opportunities.
The strike has raised concerns about potential disruptions within the petroleum sector. However, the NUPRC has assured stakeholders that oil and gas production activities remain unaffected.
Speaking on the development, the commission’s spokesman, Eniola Akinkuotu, confirmed that some administrative operations were impacted by the industrial action.
“It is true that some administrative activities were affected today due to industrial action taken by the unions. However, this has not in any way impacted activities in oil and gas facilities or production in general,” he said.
Akinkuotu added that the commission’s top management is currently engaging with union leaders in a bid to resolve the issues and restore normal operations.
“The top management of the commission is meeting with the unions in order to put an end to the strike and ultimately restore normalcy,” he stated.
As negotiations continue, industry stakeholders will be closely monitoring developments, especially as the workers insist on reforms aimed at improving welfare, strengthening institutional effectiveness, and enhancing professional development within the commission.
