Abuja, Nigeria – The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has announced the suspension of its strike action against Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals, following a new agreement brokered by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, PENGASSAN President, Festus Osifo, said the union’s decision to suspend the industrial action was made out of respect for the federal government and in recognition of the NSA’s mediating role.
However, Osifo voiced the union’s displeasure with the outcome of the agreement, stating that it failed to address the core issue that led to the strike — the alleged dismissal of over 800 Nigerian workers by the Dangote Group.
“The primary demand, which is the immediate reinstatement of the sacked workers, remains unresolved,” Osifo stated, adding that the union would not hesitate to resume the strike without notice if the company defaults on the terms of the agreement.
PENGASSAN had embarked on the strike to protest what it described as unfair labour practices by the Dangote Refinery, including the mass layoff of Nigerian employees.
The latest agreement is expected to pave the way for continued dialogue, but tensions remain high as the union maintains a watchful stance over Dangote management’s next steps.