The Dangote Group has announced plans to redeploy engineers from its refinery, who were recently dismissed over alleged sabotage, to the company’s sugar and cement operations. This comes after tensions involving the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).

Sources say some of the approximately 800 affected engineers could also be assigned to Dangote operations outside Nigeria, while new engineers will be hired to fill roles at the refinery.

The dispute began when PENGASSAN temporarily shut down oil and gas facilities in protest of the dismissal of refinery workers for joining the union. Dangote officials clarified that only a few employees were terminated for actions that jeopardized the facility. Following government intervention, operations resumed and the redeployment of the affected staff was ordered.

Insiders emphasized that the move involves highly skilled engineers, many of whom were trained abroad and participated in the commissioning of the refinery—a rare opportunity for Nigerian engineers. Replacing them would require extensive training, making redeployment a strategic move to retain talent within the company.

Concerns about salary disparities between expatriate and Nigerian engineers were addressed, with consultants noting that pay varies depending on experience, training, and the specific operational role.

The Dangote Refinery, located in the Lekki Free Zone and with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, is Africa’s largest oil refinery. It is expected to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported refined petroleum products while creating thousands of jobs.

The company affirmed its commitment to honoring agreements reached with union leaders during government-mediated discussions. The recent labor tensions initially stemmed from allegations of unfair labor practices and fuel pricing issues, which temporarily disrupted crude and gas supplies nationwide.

The redeployment process is ongoing, with affected engineers gradually assuming new positions across Dangote’s domestic and international operations.