- The oil workers’ strike prompted urgent government talks with Dangote and NUPENG.
- The planned strike raises concerns over anti-union practices and economic stability.
The oil workers’ strike has forced the Federal Government to summon Dangote Group and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to an emergency meeting. The Minister of Labour and Employment confirmed the talks, scheduled for Monday, September 8, 2025.
The crisis deepened after workers declared they would begin a nationwide strike on the same day. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) endorsed the action and instructed its 54 affiliates and 36 state councils to mobilise. The NLC described the oil workers’ strike as essential for protecting the survival of the labour movement and the dignity of Nigerian workers.
At the centre of the dispute are accusations of anti-union practices at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. Reports show the refinery intends to import thousands of compressed natural gas-powered trucks for fuel distribution. However, NUPENG claims drivers must agree not to join trade unions. The union insists this breaches constitutional rights.
On Saturday, September 6, NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the company’s labour practices as crude and dangerous. He highlighted similar disputes in Dangote Cement, Sugar, and Flour businesses. Among the accusations are poor wages, union suppression, casualisation of workers, and unsafe working conditions.
The NLC also criticised the firm for favouring foreign recruits over Nigerians. Welders and fitters were reportedly imported from India despite the availability of local professionals. The union stressed that such actions exploit workers and contradict industrialisation and job creation commitments.
If unresolved, the strike could cause fuel shortages, economic paralysis, and potential unrest. Swift intervention between the government, Dangote, and NUPENG is crucial to avert a full-blown crisis.