The Federal Government has appealed to the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to suspend its planned strike over a dispute with the Dangote Group.

Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, made the plea on Monday at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, where he hosted NUPENG leaders in a meeting convened to avert industrial action.

NUPENG had announced the strike following a standoff with the Dangote Group over the company’s policy against unionisation.

The union insists that no oil worker will be allowed to work with the conglomerate without joining the union, describing the policy as “anti-worker and anti-union,” and a ploy to enslave employees at the refinery.

The emergency meeting, scheduled for 10:00 am, did not commence until 5:22 pm. NUPENG’s delegation was led by its President, Williams Akporeha, and General Secretary, Olawale Afolabi, while government officials were led by Dingyadi.

Speaking before the closed-door session, the minister stressed the importance of stability in the oil sector, warning that disruptions could undermine the economy.

“We are here to reconcile our labour unions in the oil industry and the employers in Dangote Group. This is not the first time we are having this kind of dispute,” he said.

“We believe that by the time we sit with all parties, we should be able to resolve the issues within the limits of what is possible. I can see the level of commitment from everyone here to ensure peace.”

Dingyadi further urged both sides to remain calm, open-minded, and accommodating in their deliberations.

“What we are discussing today is very important to the peace and stability of our country and economy. The oil industry is not a sector we can afford to toy with. Please, let us all approach this matter with a listening ear and readiness to compromise where necessary,” he appealed.