A nationwide strike by PENGASSAN has paralyzed Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. Starting September 29, 2025, workers at NNPCL, NUPRC, and NMDPRA ceased operations, following union orders.
Full Compliance
In Abuja, NUPRC’s headquarters was locked, barring staff and visitors. NMDPRA’s office in the Central Business District stood empty. PENGASSAN’s NMDPRA chair, Tony Iziogba, confirmed,
“Everyone is following the strike.”
Why the Strike?
PENGASSAN claims Dangote Refinery fired 800 Nigerians for joining the union, replacing them with foreign workers.
A resolution by General Secretary Lumumba Okugbawa on September 27 ordered a halt to crude and gas supplies to the refinery, starting Sunday.
Fuel and Power Risks
The strike threatens shortages of petrol, diesel, kerosene, and aviation fuel. Gas-dependent power plants face shutdowns, risking blackouts. Oil marketers predict price spikes.
Prayer Vigils
PENGASSAN urged 24-hour prayer vigils and government talks. “We stand united until workers are reinstated,” the resolution stated, emphasizing solidarity.
Refinery’s Response
Dangote Refinery denied mass layoffs, noting over 3,000 Nigerian employees. It labeled the strike “disruptive” and called for protection of its operations, citing national harm.
Past Tensions
A similar PENGASSAN strike in June 2024 disrupted power, leading to negotiations. This action shows ongoing labor conflicts in Nigeria’s oil industry.
Talks Ahead
The Labor Minister hosts an emergency meeting on September 29. Both sides must negotiate to avoid a deeper energy crisis in 2025.
READ ALSO: Mass Layoffs at Dangote Refinery Linked to Workers’ Union Activity
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