The reconciliation meeting between the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the Dangote Group has ended without agreement. The meeting, which was aimed at resolving the ongoing labour crisis at the $20 billion Dangote Refinery, ended in a deadlock after both sides failed to shift ground on key issues.

PENGASSAN maintained its demand for the reinstatement of over 800 workers allegedly dismissed for attempting to unionise, while accusing the company of anti-labour practices. Dangote, however, insisted the disengagement was part of a restructuring to improve safety and efficiency, stressing that more than 3,000 Nigerians remain employed at the facility.

With no resolution reached, the stalemate deepens concerns over the possible impact on operations at the refinery and the wider oil and gas sector. Observers say government intervention may be required to prevent further escalation that could disrupt Nigeria’s fuel supply chain.