Minister of Labour and Employment, Mr Muhammadu Dingyadi
Federal Government has called on the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to call off its planned nationwide strike slated for Monday, September 8, 2025, warning of severe economic consequences if the action proceeds.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, urged NUPENG to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the potential damage a strike in the petroleum sector could inflict on Nigeria’s economy.
“A shutdown in this critical sector would devastate our revenue streams and deepen the challenges Nigerians are already facing,” Dingyadi said, according to the statement signed by Ms. Patience Onuobia, Head of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
Dingyadi revealed that he has stepped in to mediate the dispute, which stems from disagreements between NUPENG and the Dangote Group over unionization rights.
“I have called all parties for a conciliation meeting to find a peaceful resolution,” he stated, expressing optimism about resolving the issue without disruption to the oil and gas industry.
The minister also appealed to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to rescind its directive to affiliate unions to prepare for solidarity action in support of NUPENG.
“Even a single day of strike action could lead to billions in losses and cause significant hardship for citizens,” Dingyadi warned.
Assuring Nigerians of a swift resolution, he added, “I urge the unions to embrace dialogue.
“We are committed to resolving this matter in a way that satisfies all stakeholders and maintains stability in this vital sector.”
