Averting an Economic Quagmire: A Call for Urgent Presidential Intervention in the DANGOTE-NUPENG Standoff

By ALABI Qozim Diekola (MCPN)

The recent development between Dangote Group and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has brought to the fore the critical need for timely intervention by the Federal Government of Nigeria, led by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu (GCFR).

The dispute, centered on Dangote’s decision to deploy 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks for direct supply to filling stations while prohibiting his drivers from joining NUPENG has sparked concerns about its potential impact on the nation’s economy and investment climate.

However, Dangote’s decision is driven by corporate survival instincts, given NUPENG’s history of activities that could potentially strangle his business operations, the union’s stance is rooted in its right to freedom to join association and potential financial losses. NUPENG’s notorious history of protests and strikes, motivated by selfish interests rather than drivers’ welfare or national energy security, poses a significant threat to Dangote’s operations and, by extension, the nation’s economic stability.

The stakes are high, with Dangote Refinery producing 57 million liters of petrol daily and 104 million liters of other petroleum products. NUPENG’s potential loss of N4.8 billion daily if it loses the fight against Dangote explains the union’s aggressive stance.

If this scenario is not well managed, this standoff could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s economy, investment climate, and energy security.

Given the complexity of this issue, the Presidency and the National Assembly must step in to mediate and find a lasting solution that balances the interests of both parties while prioritizing the nation’s economic well-being.

The Federal Government’s intervention could help prevent a potentially disastrous outcome and ensure the continued operation of Dangote Refinery, a significant investment in Nigeria’s economy.

President Tinubu’s leadership is crucial in resolving this standoff. By swiftly engaging with both Dangote and NUPENG in a timely manner, the federal government of Nigeria can facilitate a mutually beneficial solution that promotes economic stability, investment, and national development.

Mr. President, the world is watching, and the time for action is now.

ALABI Qozim Diekola (MCPN)
17th September, 2025.