The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) suspended its nationwide strike on September 9, 2025, following a truce brokered between the union, the Dangote Group, and government representatives. The strike, which began on September 8, had threatened to paralyze the petroleum sector and disrupt fuel supply across Nigeria until key union demands were met.

The dispute arose after NUPENG accused the Dangote Refinery of anti-union practices, specifically refusing to recognize the unionization rights of its tanker drivers and hiring new drivers under conditions that barred union membership. This allegation triggered the threatened strike, which saw fuel loading activities halted at major depots nationwide, causing concern about potential fuel shortages and economic disruptions.

Following intense negotiations convened by the Department of State Services (DSS) and involving the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), and other stakeholders, an agreement was reached to address the union’s concerns. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by both parties and witnessed by government officials confirmed Dangote Refinery’s commitment to allow its employees to unionize in accordance with extant labour laws.

Key points of the MoU include that the unionization process for interested employees will begin immediately and be completed within two weeks, from September 9 to September 22, 2025. The agreement also stipulates that no alternative unions will be established by the employer and that no employee who participated in the strike or union activities will face victimization.

NUPENG President Williams Akporeha confirmed the suspension, stating, “The Dangote refinery has agreed to unionize its drivers. We signed an agreement, and as such, we have suspended the strike with immediate effect.” The Federal Ministry of Labour emphasized that all parties would report back after the unionization process concludes to ensure full compliance.

The Dangote Group, represented by Managing Director Sayyu Dantata, affirmed its commitment to respecting workers’ rights while dismissing earlier strike claims as unfounded. Dangote’s spokesperson Anthony Chiejina had earlier reassured the public that the strike would not cause fuel scarcity, highlighting ongoing talks to resolve the crisis.

This resolution averts a potential major disruption to Nigeria’s petroleum supply chain during a time when the Dangote Refinery plays a pivotal role as Africa’s largest refinery, producing 650,000 barrels per day and significantly reducing the country’s reliance on imported fuel.

Experts note that the successful intervention by government agencies and the inclusive negotiation process set an important precedent for handling industrial disputes in strategic economic sectors. The strike’s suspension restores calm, allowing petroleum operations to resume while marking a win for labour rights and corporate governance.

In summary, the suspension of the NUPENG strike after an MoU with Dangote Refinery and federal government mediation underscores the importance of dialogue in resolving labour disputes. The immediate next step involves monitoring the unionization process to ensure smooth implementation, safeguard workers’ rights, and maintain stability in Nigeria’s critical petroleum sector.