The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has reportedly sacked all Nigerian workers in what management described as a “total reorganisation” of its operations.
The development comes barely 24 hours after about 90% of the workforce joined the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), intensifying the long-standing dispute between the refinery and the oil workers’ union over unionisation rights.
According to a memo dated September 25, 2025, and signed by the refinery’s Chief General Manager of Human Asset Management, Femi Adekunle, the decision was linked to “reported cases of sabotage” in some refinery units.
The notice directed affected staff to return company property to their line managers and complete clearance procedures. It also instructed the finance department to process workers’ benefits and entitlements in line with contract terms, while expressing appreciation for their service.
This mass layoff marks a significant escalation in the conflict between Dangote Refinery and PENGASSAN, raising concerns about labour rights, union freedom, and the future of thousands of Nigerian oil workers.
