Prominent Nigerians Call for Restraint, Dialogue After Dangote Refinery Labour Crisis

Prominent Nigerians CaA coalition of respected Nigerians, including religious figures, business leaders, and civil society advocates, has urged calm and continued dialogue following the recent industrial dispute that temporarily disrupted operations at the Dangote Refinery.

In a joint statement released on Monday, October 6, 2025, the group expressed concern that the confrontation between workers and management could discourage future investment if not properly managed.

They welcomed the government’s intervention, which helped restore normalcy, describing it as “a timely reminder of the delicate balance between labour rights and national economic stability.”

“The Dangote Refinery is not just a private enterprise; it represents hope for energy independence after decades of failed state-owned refineries, wasteful subsidies, and dependence on imports,” the statement read.

According to the signatories, the refinery’s output has already impacted the market, reducing petrol prices from around ₦1,500 to about ₦820 per litre in some areas — a development they said has begun to ease transport and food inflation for households.

They stressed that while workers deserve fair treatment, industrial disputes must be handled in ways that do not threaten national productivity.

The group advised that concerns over monopoly or pricing should be addressed through statutory bodies such as the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) rather than through strikes.

“Workers’ welfare must remain a priority, but no single group should be allowed to hold the economy hostage,” they stated, adding that “labour and management must see themselves as partners in progress, not adversaries.”

Commending the Federal Government, labour unions, and the Dangote Group for opting for dialogue instead of confrontation, the group described the resolution process as “a model for constructive engagement in the face of national tension.”

The statement was signed by Abubakar Siddique Mohammed, Aisha Yesufu, Arunma Oteh, Atedo Peterside (CON), Bishop Matthew Kukah (CON), Dr. Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman, Dudu Mamman Manuga, Ibrahim Dahiru Waziri, Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II (Sarkin Kano), Obonganwan Barbara Etim James, Opeyemi Adamolekun, Osita Chidoka, and Senator Sola Akinyede.

“The Dangote Refinery stands as a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s industrial history,” the group concluded. “It must be safeguarded as a national asset, not politicised or weakened by avoidable conflict.”