The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has approved the recall of engineers previously sacked and redeployed during its prolonged dispute with the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, signaling a possible resolution of the crisis that disrupted operations in 2025.
The refinery announced the decision in a statement on Thursday, describing the move as a “conditional pardon” following internal disciplinary actions linked to operational disruptions.
According to the company, the recall followed extensive internal reviews and appeals from stakeholders and respected individuals who intervened in the dispute.
In an internal memo signed by the Group Vice President, Oil & Gas, Devakumar Edwin, management directed that all affected engineers be invited for meetings and reassigned to resume duties at the refinery.
The recall also applies to staff who initially declined earlier redeployment offers made during the crisis.
“This decision… reflects not only our belief in second chances but also serves as a clear reminder that loyalty, professionalism, and adherence to organisational standards are non-negotiable,” the statement read.
Warning against misconduct
While extending the recall, the company issued a strong warning that any repeat of misconduct would attract immediate sanctions, reinforcing its zero-tolerance stance on actions capable of undermining operations.
Dangote Refinery added that returning engineers are expected to demonstrate renewed commitment as the company works to strengthen efficiency and maintain its position in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Background
The dispute dates back to October 2025, when hundreds of engineers were dismissed over allegations of sabotage, claims strongly rejected by the workers, who insisted they were targeted for joining PENGASSAN.
The union responded with industrial action, shutting down oil and gas facilities nationwide and triggering significant losses in production and a drop in power generation.
The crisis prompted intervention by the Federal Government, which directed the Dangote Group to redeploy affected staff.
Many of the engineers were subsequently posted to various projects across states including Borno, Zamfara, Benue, and Ebonyi, though several declined the redeployment.
The standoff between the refinery and labour union had far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s energy sector, highlighting tensions over workers’ rights, unionisation, and corporate restructuring.
The latest recall is being seen as a major step toward restoring industrial harmony within one of Nigeria’s most strategic oil and gas assets.
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