The looming threat of a nationwide strike by the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) over alleged anti-union practices by the Dangote Refinery has prompted swift intervention by the Federal Government of Nigeria. Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, has called for a conciliation meeting with all involved parties, urging NUPENG to suspend its planned industrial action scheduled for Monday, September 8, 2025. The Minister’s appeal extends to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), requesting the withdrawal of its “red alert” issued in solidarity with the oil workers. This intervention underscores the government’s recognition of the petroleum sector’s critical role in the Nigerian economy and the potential for widespread disruption and economic hardship should the strike proceed.
The heart of the dispute lies in Dangote Refinery’s plan to import 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG) powered trucks for direct fuel distribution to retailers. While logistical challenges in China have delayed the implementation of this plan, NUPENG accuses the refinery of adopting anti-union policies that threaten the livelihoods of its members, particularly those in the Petroleum and Tanker Drivers branch. The union alleges that Aliko Dangote, the refinery’s owner, has stipulated that drivers operating the new CNG trucks will not be permitted to join any union, a condition that NUPENG views as a direct attack on workers’ rights and a potential precedent for undermining union representation within the industry.
Minister Dingyadi’s call for a conciliatory meeting emphasizes the potential economic ramifications of a strike in the petroleum sector. He warns that even a single day of disruption could lead to substantial revenue losses, estimated in billions of naira, and inflict significant hardship on Nigerian citizens. The petroleum sector, as the cornerstone of the Nigerian economy, plays a pivotal role in fuel supply and distribution, powering various industries and essential services. A shutdown of operations would have a cascading effect, disrupting transportation, impacting businesses, and potentially leading to fuel shortages across the country.
The Minister’s intervention reflects the government’s commitment to resolving the dispute amicably and finding a solution that satisfies both labor and the private refinery. His assurance that all parties will be heard and a mutually acceptable agreement reached underscores the government’s role as a mediator in labor disputes, seeking to balance the interests of workers with the needs of businesses and the wider economy. This proactive approach aims to prevent a protracted industrial action that could cripple a vital sector and exacerbate existing economic challenges.
The planned strike highlights the ongoing tension between labor unions and employers, particularly in sectors undergoing significant transformation. The introduction of new technologies, such as the CNG-powered trucks, often raises concerns about job security and the potential displacement of existing workers. The dispute also underscores the importance of collective bargaining and the role of unions in protecting workers’ rights and ensuring fair labor practices. NUPENG’s stance reflects its commitment to safeguarding its members’ livelihoods and advocating for their right to union representation.
The outcome of the conciliation meeting will be crucial in determining whether the impending strike can be averted. The government’s role as a mediator will be critical in facilitating dialogue and finding common ground between NUPENG and the Dangote Refinery. The success of the meeting hinges on the willingness of all parties to engage in constructive discussions, address the core issues of the dispute, and reach a compromise that respects workers’ rights while allowing for the implementation of new technologies and business practices. The stakes are high, with the potential for significant economic disruption and social unrest if a resolution cannot be achieved.
