The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has directed its affiliate unions to begin full mobilization for a nationwide strike. The action targets what the union describes as the Dangote Group’s persistent anti-worker agenda and disregard for Nigeria’s labour laws.
NLC Issues Decisive Directive
The directive was contained in an internal memo signed by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, on September 29, 2025. He said the era of “pleading and fruitless dialogue” with the conglomerate was over, stressing that “decisive, collective action” had become necessary.
Allegations Against Dangote Group
The NLC accused the Dangote Group of systemic anti-labour policies, union-busting, and worker exploitation.
“For too long, the Dangote Group has operated like a state within a state,” the memo stated.
The union alleged violations of Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution and ILO Conventions 87 and 98. It described Dangote’s operations as “plantations of exploitation” where workers’ dignity is undermined for profit.
Mobilisation and Strategic Action
Affiliate unions were ordered to:
Launch vigorous unionisation drives in all Dangote facilities.
Prepare for full-scale engagement against anti-labour practices.
Form Action Mobilisation Committees within 72 hours and liaise with the NLC National Secretariat for coordinated strategy and logistics.
Core Demands from Labour
The NLC listed clear demands to the Dangote Group:
1. Respect workers’ rights to freely join unions.
2. Stop intimidation, victimisation, and union-busting.
3. Fully comply with Nigeria’s labour laws and institutions.
Warning Against Impunity
The union accused regulatory agencies of failing to curb Dangote’s excesses. It vowed that no propaganda would stop labour from defending workers’ rights.
“The blood and sweat of Nigerian workers built the Dangote empire. We will not allow it to become a monument of oppression. Together we stand; together we will overcome,” the statement concluded.
