A coalition of prominent Nigerians has called for the protection of workers’ rights and the preservation of industrial harmony following the recent dispute between Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).

The call came in a joint statement signed by leading figures, including Atedo Peterside, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II, Arunma Oteh, Aisha Yesufu, Osita Chidoka, Senator Sola Akinyede, Ibrahim Dahiru Waziri, Abubakar Siddique Mohammed, Opeyemi Adamolekun, Barbara Etim James, Dr Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman, and Dudu Mamman Manuga.

The group expressed concern over the recent industrial dispute that had briefly disrupted operations at the multi-billion-dollar refinery, which was resolved through government mediation.

They said the development should serve as a lesson for Nigeria’s economic future and a reminder of the need for continuous dialogue between employers and labour unions.

“The Dangote Refinery represents more than a private venture; it is a national symbol of what bold domestic investment can achieve,” the statement read. “However, workers’ rights must be respected, and disputes must never be allowed to degenerate into actions that harm the economy or citizens.”

The refinery, located in Lekki, Lagos, had earlier faced industrial tension after Dangote Industries reportedly laid off several staff members, a move that triggered protests and threats of industrial action by PENGASSAN.

The government later intervened, leading to the suspension of the strike and the restoration of operations.

In the joint statement, the signatories emphasised three key principles: the respect for workers’ rights, the protection of productive enterprises, and the need for corporate accountability.

They noted that while workers must be treated fairly, the right to organise should not be abused in a manner that jeopardises national economic stability.

The coalition also urged parties to rely on statutory institutions such as the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to address concerns about market dominance or pricing, rather than resorting to industrial disruption.

They commended the Federal Government, labour unions, and Dangote management for resolving the crisis through dialogue and called for similar engagement in future disputes.

According to the group, industrial peace and social justice must remain the foundation of Nigeria’s economic transformation, especially in sectors critical to national development, like energy and manufacturing.