Dangote Refinery has dismissed claims of mass sack, insisting its workforce reorganisation is aimed at strengthening operations and safeguarding safety. Over 3,000 Nigerians remain employed
Dangote Refinery Denies Mass Sack Allegation, Reaffirms Workers’ Rights and Safety Commitment
…Company insists over 3,000 Nigerians still employed despite restructuring
The management of Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has debunked allegations of a mass sack of its workforce, insisting that its ongoing reorganisation exercise is aimed at safeguarding operations, strengthening security, and reinforcing its commitment to workers’ rights.
The clarification follows claims by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) that employees were being laid off for joining the union.
In a statement on Thursday, the refinery management described the allegations as “unfounded and misleading,” stressing that more than 3,000 Nigerians remain actively employed at the facility despite the restructuring.
“Over 3,000 Nigerians continue to work actively in our petroleum refinery at present. Only a minimal number of staff were affected, as we continue to recruit Nigerian talent through our graduate trainee programmes and experienced hire recruitment process,” the company disclosed.
According to the management, the restructuring became necessary after repeated incidents of sabotage within the facility, which posed safety hazards and disrupted operations.
“The decision was taken in the best interest of the refinery due to intermittent cases of sabotage in various units of the plant, with dire consequences on human life and overall safety. Protecting this strategic national asset is non-negotiable — not just for Nigeria, but for Africa and the thousands of people whose livelihoods depend on it,” the statement noted.
Reassuring employees and stakeholders, Dangote Refinery emphasised its adherence to globally recognised labour principles, particularly the freedom of workers to join or not join unions without intimidation.
“We remain committed to upholding internationally accepted labour standards, transparency, and accountability. The reorganisation is purely a safety and efficiency audit — not a clampdown on union membership,” a senior official of the refinery explained.
The company pledged to continue working with regulators, labour unions, and stakeholders to ensure a stable environment that prioritises safety, productivity, and sustainability.
The refinery, which is widely regarded as Africa’s largest industrial complex, has been a focal point in Nigeria’s drive to achieve energy self-sufficiency. Analysts say the clarification is critical in easing concerns among industry workers and stakeholders about labour relations within the facility.
