The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has appealed to Dangote Refinery management and PENGASSAN to embrace dialogue to resolve their ongoing dispute. The commission said the strike declared by the oil workers’ union, if allowed to continue, could disrupt the energy sector and cause widespread economic consequences.
In a statement, the NUPRC emphasized the importance of stability in the petroleum industry and reminded all parties that Nigeria’s energy security depends on uninterrupted operations at major facilities. It urged Dangote Refinery to engage constructively with the union to address workers’ grievances and reaffirmed the commission’s readiness to mediate.
The regulator also highlighted the obligations of companies operating in the sector to respect labor rights, uphold local content laws, and comply with international standards. It appealed to PENGASSAN to consider the broader national interest and avoid actions that could worsen fuel supply challenges or affect investors’ confidence in Nigeria.
Dangote Refinery has so far dismissed the allegations of mass layoffs, saying its recent staffing changes were necessary to improve operations. PENGASSAN, however, insists that hundreds of Nigerians were replaced with foreigners. The NUPRC said it will monitor the situation closely and ensure that a resolution is reached without delay.
