The Federal Government has stepped in to prevent a looming nationwide strike by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) over its dispute with Dangote Refinery.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, urged the oil workers’ union to reconsider its decision to shut down operations scheduled to begin Monday, September 8, 2025.
According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Patience Onuobia, Dingyadi emphasized the vital role of the petroleum sector in sustaining Nigeria’s economy, appealing to NUPENG to allow dialogue rather than disrupt fuel supply.
Background of the Dispute
Last week, NUPENG directed its members to commence industrial action, accusing Dangote Refinery of anti-labour practices and alleging attempts to “enslave Nigerian workers.”
Despite government intervention, the union has maintained its stance, insisting that the strike will go ahead until its concerns are fully addressed.
Government Intervention
The Labour Minister has now invited NUPENG, Dangote Refinery, and other stakeholders to a conciliation meeting scheduled for Monday at 3 pm.
“I plead with NUPENG to rescind their decision to shut down the petroleum sector,” Dingyadi stated. He also appealed to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to withdraw the “red alert” issued to its affiliates in solidarity with NUPENG.
NUPENG’s Position
Speaking to DAILY POST, NUPENG’s National President, Williams Akporeha, confirmed that the union would attend the meeting but clarified that the strike would not be suspended until concrete resolutions are made.
“We will not bow to pressure from capitalists trying to enslave Nigerian workers,” Akporeha said firmly.
Controversy Over Alleged Attacks
Meanwhile, the Rights for Human Dignity and Justice (RHDAJ) has accused NUPENG of plotting to vandalize Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks imported by Dangote Refinery.
However, Akporeha dismissed the allegations as false propaganda, claiming they were sponsored by Dangote Refinery to discredit the union.
What’s Next?
The outcome of Monday’s conciliation meeting will be crucial in determining whether the strike proceeds or is suspended. If the shutdown goes ahead, it could trigger fuel shortages and economic disruptions across the country.
Jamflash will continue to follow this story closely and provide real-time updates on developments between NUPENG, Dangote Refinery, and the Federal Government.
… Do you think the government can resolve this dispute without a nationwide strike? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
