FG Engages Dangote, PENGASSAN Over Dispute as Nationwide Strike Starts

The Federal Government is intensifying efforts to mediate in the ongoing dispute between Dangote Petroleum Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) over the alleged mass dismissal of union members and their replacement with expatriates.

Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, has appealed to PENGASSAN to suspend its nationwide strike, which commenced yesterday, stressing that dialogue remains the only path to resolution.

The strike has already disrupted operations, with members of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) unable to effectively lift products or provide key services.

In a swift reaction, the management of Dangote Refinery condemned PENGASSAN’s action, accusing the union of sabotaging Nigeria’s oil and gas sector for decades and prioritising the interests of its leaders over ordinary Nigerians.

Government officials confirmed that the Ministry of Labour and Employment has scheduled an emergency conciliation meeting with both parties, urging them to prioritise peace and economic stability. “There is no alternative to dialogue,” a senior ministry source said, adding that the strike poses risks to revenue, energy security, and the wider economy.

PENGASSAN has maintained that only the unconditional reinstatement of all affected members will bring the strike to an end. The union further warned against what it described as the replacement of Nigerian workers with foreign nationals.

Meanwhile, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has declared support for PENGASSAN, placing its affiliates on standby for a possible nationwide action if the matter is not resolved.

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) also appealed to both parties to settle their differences amicably, citing the importance of maintaining stability in the energy supply chain.

Amidst the tensions, NUPENG distanced itself from individuals parading as “elders” of its Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch, describing them as impostors and calling for their arrest.

In a separate development, the Concerned Nigerian Consumers Forum criticised PENGASSAN’s industrial action, warning that it could trigger fuel shortages and economic instability. The group urged the government to protect the refinery, describing it as a vital asset for energy independence and job creation.

The Dangote Refinery, in its own statement, accused PENGASSAN of reckless behaviour, recalling past opposition by oil unions to refinery reforms and privatisation efforts. The company highlighted its contribution to infrastructure, job creation, and tax revenues, stressing that the strike was an act of “economic sabotage” against over 200 million Nigerians.

The refinery called on the government and security agencies to act swiftly to safeguard national energy security and prevent further disruption.