The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN, has convened an emergency National Executive Council meeting in response to the mass sacking of workers by Dangote Refinery. The workers were terminated due to their affiliation with the union. PENGASSAN’s National President, Comrade Festus Osifo, revealed the union’s plan to address the situation in an interview.
The decision to hold an emergency meeting was made after Dangote Refinery terminated the appointments of its Nigerian workers who had joined PENGASSAN. Osifo assured that the union will work towards recalling the sacked workers. The meeting, scheduled for the weekend, aims to determine the best course of action against Dangote Refinery.
This development may potentially lead to a strike, which could disrupt Nigeria’s oil sector. In recent weeks, Dangote Refinery has been at odds with the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, over the unionization of its workers. Early in September 2025, Dangote Refinery obtained an interim injunction to prevent NUPENG from embarking on a strike, which was in effect for seven days.
The unionization dispute and subsequent sackings have raised concerns about labor rights and the potential impact on the oil industry. PENGASSAN’s emergency meeting is expected to address these concerns and decide on the next steps. The outcome of the meeting may have significant implications for the oil sector and the workers involved.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the dispute will be resolved. The oil sector is a critical component of Nigeria’s economy, and any disruptions could have far-reaching consequences. PENGASSAN’s efforts to recall the sacked workers and address the unionization issue will be closely watched. The meeting’s outcome is anticipated to provide clarity on the union’s strategy and the potential consequences for Dangote Refinery and the oil sector as a whole.
