In a dramatic turnaround that has averted a looming industrial crisis, the Federal Government has brokered a truce between the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), putting an end to tensions that threatened the nation’s energy stability.
After two marathon days of negotiations in Abuja, the Dangote Group agreed to redeploy all sacked refinery staff to other companies within its vast conglomerate, with no loss of pay or benefits. The decision, government officials say, underscores the priority of protecting Nigerian workers while keeping the nation’s largest refinery on track.
Announcing the breakthrough on Wednesday, Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Mohammed Maigari Dingyadi, declared: “Unionisation is a fundamental right enshrined in Nigerian law. No worker will be victimised for standing up for that right.”
PENGASSAN, in turn, pledged to commence the process of calling off its strike, ensuring uninterrupted operations across the oil and gas sector.
The high-stakes mediation drew the presence of some of the country’s most powerful officials, including National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Finance Minister Wale Edun, Budget and Economic Planning Minister Senator Atiku Bagudu, Minister of State for Labour Barr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, as well as the heads of the DSS and NIA.
The deal is being hailed as a victory for national interest, preserving jobs, calming labour tensions, and safeguarding Nigeria’s energy security at a critical time.
