The closed-door meeting between the Federal Government and labour unions on the dispute involving the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Dangote Group ended in a deadlock on Monday.
The meeting, which was convened to resolve disagreements over alleged unfair labour practices, lasted several hours in Abuja but failed to produce a concrete resolution.
A senior official at the Ministry of Labour confirmed the outcome, saying:
“Both sides presented their positions, but there was no agreement on the key issues. The Federal Government urged for more dialogue, but the matter remains unresolved.”
NUPENG insists that the Dangote Group must address concerns over workers’ welfare, contract terms, and what the union described as “persistent disregard for labour rights.”
A union representative who spoke after the meeting stressed:
“We are not backing down until our members’ rights are protected. Exploitation of workers will not be tolerated, no matter the size or influence of the employer.”
On its part, the Dangote Group denied the allegations, maintaining that it operates within Nigeria’s labour laws.
“We have complied with all statutory obligations and maintain global best practices in labour relations,” a company spokesperson said, urging the union to embrace dialogue instead of confrontation.
The Federal Government has appealed to both parties to avoid actions that could disrupt the supply of petroleum products and destabilize the economy.
“The issues are sensitive, but the government is committed to finding a balance that protects workers’ rights while safeguarding investments,” the labour ministry added.
The deadlock raises fears of a possible strike by oil and gas workers, which could worsen fuel scarcity and trigger further economic hardship for Nigerians.
Stakeholders are calling for urgent mediation to prevent an escalation of the dispute.
