Dangote Refinery Addresses Workforce Reorganization Amid Sabotage Concerns
Dangote Petroleum Refinery has initiated a targeted workforce reorganization at its 650,000 barrels per day facility due to repeated sabotage incidents
Dangote Refinery Addresses Workforce Reorganization Amid Sabotage Concerns
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals, a pivotal project in Nigeria’s energy sector, has initiated a major reorganization of its operations due to repeated sabotage incidents threatening its 650,000 barrels per day facility. This action has sparked significant attention, with early reports suggesting a mass dismissal of Nigerian workers. However, the refinery’s management has clarified that the move is a targeted effort to protect operations, not a blanket layoff.
Clarification from the Management, In a letter dated September 24, 2025, signed by Femi Adekunle, Chief General Manager of Human Asset Management, the refinery announced a “total reorganization” prompted by “numerous reported cases of sabotage across various units, raising serious safety concerns.” Affected employees were instructed to return company property and secure clearance for their entitlements, which would be processed according to their service conditions. This led to widespread speculation, particularly online, that the refinery had terminated its entire Nigerian workforce, with some attributing the move to union activities.
Senior refinery officials have refuted these claims, emphasizing that the reorganization targets only those implicated in sabotage. A senior official stated, “This affects specific individuals due to findings within the refinery. It’s unrelated to unionism.” The official described the action as a “system cleanup” to address operational vulnerabilities, with the potential for affected staff to be reabsorbed after investigations. “It’s not a sack. That term wasn’t used. It’s about addressing sabotage and leakages,” the official clarified.
Urgency to Protect Operations
The reorganization’s urgency stemmed from the need to prevent further sabotage. “Giving prior notice could have allowed those involved to conceal their actions,” the official explained, underscoring the refinery’s commitment to safeguarding its assets. The refinery also confirmed that operations continue uninterrupted, with both Nigerian and expatriate staff actively working. “Only those involved in sabotage are affected. Unaffected staff have no concerns,” the official added.
The Dangote Refinery, vital for Nigeria’s energy independence, has been closely watched since its recent operational launch. Its potential to stabilize fuel supply and reduce import reliance makes its internal challenges noteworthy.
The management’s response highlights a proactive stance in ensuring operational integrity while addressing misinformation about mass dismissals.
Efforts to reach Anthony Chiejina, Dangote Group’s spokesperson, for an official statement were unsuccessful. As the refinery navigates these issues, further clarity on the reorganization’s scope and its impact on Nigeria’s energy sector is expected in the coming days.
This development underscores the complexities of managing a project of this magnitude. The refinery remains focused on stabilizing operations and maintaining productivity, reinforcing its critical role in Nigeria’s economic landscape.
News sources:
What's Your Reaction?
