Nigeria faces looming fuel scarcity and electricity blackouts as the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) begins a nationwide strike.
Refinery Shutdown, Supply Halt
The strike, which started at midnight on Monday, September 29, 2025, has forced a shutdown of the Dangote Refinery and fertiliser plant after PENGASSAN ordered members to halt crude and gas supplies. The union accused the refinery of sacking over 800 Nigerian workers in violation of labour laws and replacing them with foreigners.
Fuel and Power Disruptions Ahead
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) warned the move could trigger fuel scarcity and pump price hikes, urging government intervention.
Power producers also raised alarm after gas suppliers instructed thermal plants, which generate over 70% of Nigeria’s electricity, to shut down. The Association of Power Generation Companies (GenCos) warned the nation could face “imminent darkness.”
Dangote, TUC React
While the Trade Union Congress (TUC) backed PENGASSAN’s demand for reinstating the sacked workers, the Dangote Refinery dismissed the strike as “reckless and dangerous,” insisting the sackings were based on safety and efficiency.
FG Moves to Intervene
Labour Minister Muhammad Dingyadi has summoned both parties to an emergency meeting today in a bid to avert further hardship for Nigerians.
