There is growing tension around the Dangote Petroleum Refinery following reports that its management has terminated the employment of all Nigerian staff, barely 24 hours after most of them joined the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).

The development came through an internal memo dated September 25, 2025, and signed by the Chief General Manager of Human Asset Management, Femi Adekunle. According to the document, the move was part of what the company described as a “total re-organisation” of its workforce.

The refinery claimed that the decision was not just about union activities but also linked to “reported cases of sabotage” allegedly discovered in several operational units of the facility.

Affected staff were instructed to hand over all company property in their possession to their line managers and secure exit clearance before leaving. The finance department was also directed to calculate their outstanding entitlements for immediate settlement, in line with their employment terms.

“Management appreciates your services while in our employment and wishes you success in your future endeavours,” the memo stated.

This sweeping action has sparked discussions in labour circles, as PENGASSAN and the refinery have been at loggerheads for months over the unionisation of staff. Many observers see the mass sack as a direct response to the employees’ decision to join the oil workers’ union.

At the time of this report, PENGASSAN leaders had not issued an official statement. However, labour analysts believe a strong response is likely, as the move could set the stage for fresh industrial action in the oil and gas sector.

The Dangote Refinery, one of the largest in Africa, only began operations recently and is regarded as a key project for Nigeria’s economic growth. The sudden job cuts may raise concerns about employee welfare, workplace rights, and the refinery’s labour relations going forward.