Dangote Refinery Threatens To Terminate Employment Of Nigerian Workers

The Dangote Refinery has made a shocking move by terminating the employment of all its Nigerian workers.

This decision comes less than 24 hours after 90% of the workers joined the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN). The refinery’s management claims the termination is part of a “total re-organisation” due to reported sabotage in various units.

The management’s memo, dated September 25, 2025, and signed by Chief General Manager of Human Asset Management, Femi Adekunle, directed affected staff to surrender all company property and obtain exit clearance. The finance department has been instructed to compute benefits and entitlements for payment according to the terms of employment.

The Dangote Refinery’s decision has sparked concerns about labor relations and workers’ rights in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. The move is seen as a direct confrontation with labor rights and freedom of association. PENGASSAN may take further action to address the situation.

The incident highlights the ongoing dispute between Dangote Refinery and PENGASSAN over unionization issues. The refinery’s management had previously expressed concerns about the workers’ decision to join the union. However, the workers had exercised their right to freedom of association.

The termination of employment has raised questions about the future of labor relations in the industry. Labor analysts warn that the action could lead to nationwide protests, affecting fuel supply and pricing. The situation may escalate if not handled properly.

The refinery’s management thanked the dismissed workers for their services while in employment. However, the sudden nature of the terminations has left many workers shocked and concerned about their future.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the dispute between Dangote Refinery and PENGASSAN will be resolved. The outcome may have significant implications for labor relations in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry