The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has condemned escalating confrontations between labour unions and Dangote Refinery, describing the standoff as “unconscionable” and a threat to investor confidence.
Director-general Segun Ajayi-Kadir, likened the unions’ actions to “vultures gathering to devour what should be a jewel of Nigerian manufacturing,” stressing that no investor would commit billions only to see projects disrupted by industrial disputes.
“You cannot shut down an economy, and you cannot disincentivize private sector investment. Everyone is watching,” Ajayi-Kadir said, urging government intervention and adherence to existing court injunctions.
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) recently ordered a nationwide strike in response to the dismissal of some Nigerian workers by Dangote Refinery. The federal government, through the minister of labour and employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, has called for restraint and initiated reconciliation efforts to prevent escalation.
Ajayi-Kadir emphasised negotiation over confrontation as the proper route for resolving disputes with Dangote Refinery.
“The labour unions should keep their sword apart and let dialogue resolve the matter. Dangote’s entry is a disruption, but it should be addressed through discussion, not strikes,” he said.
