A conciliation meeting between the Nigerian Federal Government, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), and the Dangote Group ended in a deadlock after more than nine hours. The talks were intended to resolve the industrial dispute stemming from the alleged dismissal of 800 workers by the Dangote Refinery. Minister of Labour and Employment Muhammad Dingyadi, who chaired the session, said progress was made but two key issues remain unresolved: the reinstatement of the sacked workers and unionisation. He expressed optimism that a resolution could be reached by the end of the day and announced that the meeting would resume at 2 p.m.
PENGASSAN President Festus Osifo confirmed that no agreement was reached on reinstating the dismissed workers. He stressed that the union’s primary concern is the restoration of the over 800 employees, whose careers and reputations have been damaged by being labelled as saboteurs. Osifo warned that the strike will continue until the workers are reinstated, as their livelihoods and future employment prospects are at stake.
The Dangote Group has acknowledged dismissing the workers, citing reasons outlined in a letter. Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun warned of the economic risks posed by a prolonged strike, emphasizing the need to limit damage to the economy and preserve the current growth momentum.
The standoff between PENGASSAN and the Dangote Group carries significant implications for Nigeria’s economy, particularly the oil and gas sector. Concerns have been raised that the ongoing strike could disrupt gas and crude supplies, with far‑reaching consequences for the country’s economic stability. As the meeting reconvenes, all parties are working toward a resolution that is crucial for Nigeria’s economic progress.
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