PENGASSAN, Dangote Refinery Dispute Settled After Strike, Government Steps In

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) is at odds with the Vice President and Dangote refinery following industrial action triggered by the sacking of workers allegedly for union membership.

Last week, PENGASSAN suspended oil and gas operations to defend sacked members, prompting nationwide production losses and power shortages.

The Dangote refinery maintained the dismissals were limited to employees accused of sabotaging operations during its internal reorganisation.

Federal Government intervention led to the redeployment of affected workers and suspension of the strike, but gas prices remain high (about ₦2,000 per kg in Lagos).

VP Kashim Shettima praised Dangote as a national economic pillar and urged unions to avoid “holding the country to ransom.”

PENGASSAN President Festus Osifo countered, asserting Nigeria is bigger than any individual or institution, and confirmed the union would defend members’ jobs if similar circumstances arise.

General Secretary Lumumba Okugbawa reiterated workers’ constitutional right to strike.

Economic Context and Reforms

Ministers highlighted Nigeria’s economic reforms since 2023—including subsidy removal, FX deregulation, and fiscal discipline—which have improved GDP growth and revenue collection.

Government officials stressed support for domestic production, trade expansion, and export growth under AfCFTA, aiming to embed Nigerian businesses in global value chains.

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) called for consolidating reforms across industrialisation, infrastructure, investor confidence, and inclusion.

Protests in Kaduna

Scores of protesters marched to support the Dangote refinery and condemn PENGASSAN’s actions, framing them as sabotage and economic terrorism.

Leaders called for government intervention to protect local refining and ensure fair crude pricing for domestic producers.

PENGASSAN Internal Disputes

The NGIC/NGML branch of PENGASSAN was dissolved after allegedly failing to cut gas supply to Dangote during the strike.

The branch contested the decision, citing operational hazards, security presence, and technical constraints.

A petition by 163 members requested reinstatement of leadership and clearance of sabotage allegations.

Dangote Petroleum’s Response

Dangote thanked President Bola Tinubu for intervention that helped restore stability to the refinery.

The company also acknowledged efforts by Nigeria’s security chiefs and senior officials to avert energy disruption.

Current Situation

Sacked engineers await redeployment.

PENGASSAN maintains its stance on defending member rights.

Government and refinery are working to stabilise operations and protect local refining efforts.