The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has suspended its nationwide strike after Dangote Refinery agreed to recognize workers’ rights to unionize.
The decision was made following a meeting between NUPENG and Dangote Refinery management, facilitated by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja.
The unionization process will commence immediately and be completed within two weeks (September 9-22, 2025).
No worker or employee of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals will be victimized for exercising their right to unionize the Dangote Refinery management agreed not to set up any other union, ensuring NUPENG’s exclusive recognition.
The strike was called off after the federal government intervened, urging both parties to resolve their differences. The dispute arose when Dangote Refinery refused to allow its workers to join NUPENG, citing internal policies. NUPENG argued that this decision contravened labor rights guaranteed under Nigerian law.
The suspension of the strike is expected to bring relief to Nigerians, as it will prevent disruptions to petroleum product distribution and potential fuel shortages. The agreement marks a significant development in the ongoing labor dispute between NUPENG and Dangote Refinery.
