Nigerian unions to continue with crippling strikes after talks fail

Nigerian labour unions have said they would resume nationwide strikes today, crippling the second largest economy in Africa, after failing to reach a compromise with the government over scrapped fuel subsidies.

However, the main oil union said it was maintaining the output of Africa’s No. 1 crude producer, not joining walkouts for the time being, and the government said more talks would be held despite unsuccessful rounds over the weekend.

Tens of thousands took to the streets for strikes over five successive days last week in protest against the removal of a fuel subsidy on 1 January that more than doubled the pump price of petrol.

“The indefinite strikes, rallies and protests continue nationwide from[today],” the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress said, but added it was open for talks.