The dispute between the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the management of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals ended on September 8, 2025, after both sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) brokered by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Here are the five key outcomes:

1. Dangote Accepts Unionization

Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals agreed to allow their employees to join registered labour unions in line with Nigerian labour laws. Both refinery and petrochemical workers now have the right to unionize without interference.

2. Unionization Based on Workers’ Willingness

The agreement emphasizes that only employees willing to join will be unionized, in full compliance with Nigerian labour laws.

3. Unionization Process Starts Immediately

The parties agreed that the unionization process will run from September 9th to September 22nd, 2025, as the timeline to complete the unionization exercise. The management also pledged not to create or back any alternative unions.

4. No Retaliation Against Workers

The MoU bars management from punishing or victimizing workers over the strike notice issued by NUPENG. Employees will not face reprisals for supporting union activities.

5. Labour Ministry to Monitor Compliance

Both sides will report back to the Minister of Labour one week after the conclusion of the unionization process to confirm compliance and progress.

Signatories to the Agreement

The MoU carried the signatures of representatives from Dangote Group, NUPENG, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment