The NNPCL laments losses as PENGASSAN strike continues to inflict heavy damage on Nigeria’s energy sector. In a letter to key regulators, NNPC’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Bashir Ojulari, revealed that the suspended three-day strike caused 16% oil production losses, 30% marketed gas reduction, and a 20% power supply shortfall across the nation—exposing deep vulnerabilities in energy security.

According to the letter titled “Impact Assessment of ongoing industrial action”, Ojulari said crude deferments hit 283,000 barrels per day and gas supply shrank by 1.7 billion standard cubic feet daily, leading to delayed power generation. He warned that if the standoff lingers, the impact would deepen, threatening national revenue and power stability.

The industrial action stemmed from a dispute between PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery over mass sackings and alleged replacement of Nigerian workers with foreigners. While the strike has now been suspended following government mediation, Ojulari cautioned that the truce is temporary and systemic risks remain.

In his letter, the NNPCL CEO also disclosed that critical maintenance schedules have been disrupted, further compounding operational constraints. He emphasized that export loading delays, demurrage risks, and disrupted lifting operations are already biting into the company’s cashflow—pointing to mounting financial pressures.

PENGASSAN President, Festus Osifo, confirmed the strike suspension, stating, “We are only suspending, not calling off this strike. If any part of this agreement is broken, we will immediately resume.” He also underscored that the dispute is fundamentally about workers’ right to association and fair treatment.

Nigeria’s oil, gas, and power sectors now stand at a precarious crossroad. As the economy reels from the shock, stakeholders are left asking: can this fragile peace hold? Or are bigger energy storms ahead?