Eminent Nigerians Urge Calm, Dialogue Over Dangote Refinery Labour Dispute

A coalition of prominent Nigerians — including religious leaders, business executives, and civil society advocates — has called for calm and continuous dialogue amid the recent labour unrest involving the Dangote Refinery.

In a joint statement issued on Monday, October 6, 2025, the group voiced concern over the brief industrial dispute that disrupted operations at the multibillion-dollar refinery before government intervention helped defuse tensions.

While welcoming the resolution between labour unions and management, the signatories said the incident highlights crucial lessons for Nigeria’s economic stability and industrial relations.

“For decades, Nigerians endured the collapse of government-owned refineries, wasteful subsidy regimes, and dependence on fuel imports,” the statement read. “In this context, the Dangote Refinery represents more than a private venture; it is a national symbol of what bold domestic investment can achieve.”

The group noted that the refinery’s activities have already contributed to a sharp drop in petrol prices — from about ₦1,500 to roughly ₦820 per litre, a reduction of nearly 55 percent in some regions — easing transportation and food costs for citizens.

However, they warned that repeated industrial conflicts could erode investor confidence and threaten the refinery’s broader economic benefits. They urged all stakeholders to balance workers’ rights with business sustainability, while handling grievances through proper regulatory channels such as the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

“Workers must be treated fairly, but industrial action should not hold the economy hostage,” the group cautioned.

They commended the Federal Government, labour unions, and the Dangote Group for choosing dialogue over confrontation, describing the outcome as “a positive template for future engagements.”

Among the signatories were Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II, Bishop Matthew Kukah (CON), Atedo Peterside (CON), Aisha Yesufu, Arunma Oteh, Osita Chidoka, Abubakar Siddique Mohammed, Opeyemi Adamolekun, Dr. Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman, Dudu Mamman Manuga, Senator Sola Akinyede, Ibrahim Dahiru Waziri, and Obonganwan Barbara Etim James.

“The Dangote Refinery represents an audacious step toward self-reliance,” the statement concluded. “It should be strengthened, not undermined — as a signal that investing in Nigeria’s future is worthwhile.”