The ITUC-Africa views the Dangote Refinery as a symbol of African progress, industrial ambition, and a march towards energy sovereignty. African workers stand ready to support the refinery to attain these identified potentials. We are convinced that the refinery’s workers, especially an organised workforce, will be critical to its operation and success. It is, therefore, deeply ironic and unacceptable that the Dangote Refinery opposes workers organising to advance their shared interests, which include the success of the refinery.

We are particularly alarmed that the Dangote Refinery sacked workers who elected to join the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN). This action is a blatant violation of workers’ rights, and it stands condemned. This mass sack of PENGASSAN’s subscribed members is an affront to Nigeria’s Constitution and contrary to the principles of responsible business practice.

No doubt, the mass sack action by the Dangote Refinery negates Nigeria’s obligations to the protection of human and labour rights as enshrined in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and several conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), such as Convention 87 (Freedom of Association), Convention 98 (Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining), and Convention 111 (Non-Discrimination). These instruments ensure that no worker is punished for engaging in union activity. The actions of Dangote management run counter to these obligations and must be called to order.

ITUC-Africa is equally concerned that the Dangote Refinery has mobilized mainstream and social media against the workers who are seeking to have their rights respected and preserved. We are witnessing a media war playing out where the workers and the trade unions are labelled as saboteurs and enemies of the people and Nigeria’s progress and greatness.

We wish to state that the current actions of the Dangote Refinery pose a threat and are capable of undermining Africa’s collective journey toward sustainable industrialization. Our opinion is based on our time-tested observation of the Dangote Group’s operations, which have been characterized by a monopoly-like behavior and a reluctance to tolerate opposition. The Nigerian and African public should know that the Dangote Group operates in other parts of the continent with the same template of aversion and brutal opposition to workers’ joining trade unions to protect and advance their collective interests.

Therefore, we call on the Dangote Refinery to desist from the cheap blackmail of workers and trade unions wanting to sabotage its operations. Such claims are reckless, infantile, and irresponsible. While we reiterate our unwavering commitment to advocating for, supporting, and fighting for the continent’s energy sovereignty and shared prosperity, we shall not allow such ambition to be undermined by a desire for unchecked monopoly and the abuse of workers’ rights.

ITUC-Africa, therefore, demands:
1. Immediate reinstatement of all affected workers.
2. A public apology and assurances against future victimization.
3. An independent investigation involving the Ministry of Labour, ILO, and stakeholders.

Respecting workers’ rights is not optional—it is a hallmark of responsible business and a condition for genuine development. A refinery of this magnitude cannot thrive on repression but must rest on social dialogue and decent work.
ITUC-Africa calls on the Dangote Group to reverse this action and work with unions to advance Nigeria’s and Africa’s energy sufficiency. Should it fail to do so, ITUC-Africa will rally its affiliates and allies to defend Nigerian workers and protect the integrity of Africa’s development path.

An injury to one is an injury to all. The dignity of workers will not be sacrificed.

Issued on 1 October 2025 in Lome, Togo
Akhator Joel Odigie
General Secretary
ITUC-Africa