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Diesel Truckers Strike Set to Cause Widespread Network Blackouts in Nigeria
A diesel truckers strike in Nigeria is threatening to plunge millions of people into mobile network blackouts, particularly in Lagos and Ogun States. The strike, organized by the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), a branch of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), has disrupted the supply of diesel, which is critical for powering telecom towers across the country. As the standoff continues, telecom operators are warning of severe consequences if diesel deliveries are not restored soon.
The crisis began when fuel truckers halted operations in protest against alleged harassment by Lagos State government officials. According to NUPENG, drivers have faced incidents such as tire deflations, arrests, and vehicle damage over parking violations.
Wale Afolabi, NUPENG’s Secretary General, stated that the truckers are demanding an end to these actions, repairs for damaged vehicles, and the release of detained drivers. “We decided to withhold our services until the government acknowledges that these truckers are human beings too,” Afolabi said.
The diesel truckers strike in Nigeria has already caused significant disruption. Telecom companies like IHS Towers and American Tower Corporation, which rely on diesel generators to power their base stations due to Nigeria’s unreliable electricity grid, are running critically low on fuel.
This has led to slower browsing speeds, dropped calls, and intermittent service failures for mobile users in Lagos and Ogun States. With Lagos handling over 60% of Nigeria’s national data traffic, the situation could escalate into widespread network blackouts if no immediate action is taken.
The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has raised alarms over the looming crisis. ATCON President Tony Emoekpere warned that many telecom sites are on the verge of shutting down due to insufficient diesel supplies. “This is not just a telecom issue, it is a national emergency that could cripple economic activities and compromise public safety,” Emoekpere emphasized. He urged the governors of Lagos and Ogun States to intervene by facilitating the release of diesel from depots to telecom operators.
The diesel truckers strike causes network blackouts that could have far-reaching effects on businesses, banking services, e-commerce platforms, and emergency response systems. Mobile and internet services are essential for daily life in Nigeria’s digital economy, particularly in Lagos, which serves as the country’s commercial hub. Prolonged outages could disrupt financial transactions, stall businesses, and hinder communication across various sectors.
The Lagos State government has defended its actions, stating that it is enforcing an e-call-up system designed to manage truck movements and reduce traffic congestion in areas like Lekki-Epe. However, tanker drivers argue that these measures have led to excessive fines and harassment by officials.
Yusuf Othman, President of the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), criticized the government’s approach, claiming it has created unnecessary tension between truckers and authorities.
Telecom operators have called for urgent contingency measures to prevent a total collapse of network services. Many base stations depend on reserve tanks for emergencies, but these reserves are now running dangerously low after days without diesel deliveries. The reliance on generators highlights the fragility of Nigeria’s telecom infrastructure and its dependence on fossil fuels due to inadequate public electricity supply.
As tensions remain unresolved, millions face uncertainty regarding their ability to stay connected. ATCON continues to appeal for swift action from all stakeholders involved, governments, security agencies, and petroleum unions, to resolve the crisis before it spirals further out of control. The diesel truckers strike in Nigeria underscores how critical fuel supply chains are to maintaining essential services like mobile networks.
If no resolution is reached soon, network blackouts in Nigeria could become a reality, disrupting communication for millions and impacting both personal lives and economic activities nationwide. This ongoing situation highlights the urgent need for more sustainable energy solutions within Nigeria’s telecom sector to reduce reliance on diesel-powered generators in the future.
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