NLC takes firm stance on Dangote Group’s labour practices
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced full-scale mobilization of its affiliate unions for a potential nationwide strike, in protest against what it calls the “anti-worker policies” of the Dangote Group. The decision follows ongoing labour disputes involving key oil and gas unions and the conglomerate.
In an internal memo signed by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and dated September 29, 2025, the labour body accused the Dangote Group of persistent violations of Nigerian labour laws and international labour standards. The memo marks a turning point in negotiations between the union and one of Nigeria’s largest private-sector employers.
Ongoing union disputes trigger wider action
The immediate trigger for the mobilization appears to be unresolved issues between the Dangote Group and unions in the oil and gas sector, particularly the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG). However, the NLC described these disputes as “symptoms of a deeper problem,” alleging a systemic pattern of anti-union activities across the group’s various businesses.
According to the NLC, “The ongoing disputes are only the tip of the iceberg. There is a larger trend of worker exploitation and resistance to unionisation that must be addressed comprehensively.”
Labour body outlines key demands
The NLC’s memo includes several demands directed at the Dangote Group. These include:
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Unconditional respect for workers’ rights to join unions
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An end to all alleged union-busting and intimidation practices
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Full compliance with Nigerian labour laws and relevant institutions
The memo further instructed all affiliate unions to begin vigorous unionisation efforts within Dangote’s facilities and prepare for coordinated industrial action if the demands are not met.
“All affiliate unions are hereby placed on immediate and full alert,” the memo states. “Commence preparations to mobilise members and resources for full-scale engagement.”
Strategic planning and coordination underway
To ensure effective implementation of the planned action, the NLC directed all affiliate unions to establish Action Mobilisation Committees within 72 hours of receiving the directive. These committees are expected to work in coordination with the NLC National Secretariat to align strategy, logistics, and communication.
“The unity of purpose and collective action is non-negotiable,” the memo said. “This is not just about one company, but about the future of workers’ rights in Nigeria.”
Concerns raised about regulatory oversight
The NLC also raised concerns over what it described as the failure of regulatory agencies to address complaints and labour infractions. It alleged that the Dangote Group had benefited from regulatory laxity, allowing it to operate “with impunity” in ways that undermine the rights of workers.
“The state appears to have abdicated its responsibility to regulate fairly,” the memo said. “We call on relevant authorities to act swiftly and impartially to ensure compliance with the law.”
Call for peaceful and lawful engagement
While the tone of the NLC’s statement is firm, the labour body has urged all affiliate unions to conduct themselves within the boundaries of the law. It emphasized that any forthcoming strike or protest action must be peaceful, coordinated, and focused on securing better working conditions and legal protections for all employees.
The Congress also reiterated that its actions are guided by the need to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s labour institutions and ensure that all workers, regardless of where they are employed, are treated fairly and with dignity.
A defining moment for Nigeria’s labour movement?
The coming weeks are expected to be critical as the NLC begins engagement with its members, stakeholders, and possibly the federal government. While there has been no official response from the Dangote Group at the time of writing, observers believe the situation could lead to significant developments in Nigeria’s labour and industrial relations landscape.
For many within the labour movement, the outcome of this standoff could set a precedent for how large private sector players engage with unions in the future.
