NASWDEN Nigeria: Nationwide Strike Begins October 1, 2026

• The National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN) has called for a nationwide strike starting October 1, 2026.
• The industrial action will halt the supply of scrap metals to Nigerian iron-smelting companies, initially for two weeks but potentially indefinitely.
• Key grievances include sudden price reductions by steel companies, alleged deductions for 'extra dust,' and the involvement of foreign entities in the scrap business.
• NASWDEN also alleges that some companies purchase scrap from unregistered dealers, raising concerns about the trade in vandalized property.
• The association has urged members to remain peaceful and seeks dialogue with stakeholders to resolve the Nigeria scrap metal industry dispute.

A critical concern for the association also revolves around the alleged procurement practices of some iron companies, which are reportedly purchasing scrap metals from unregistered dealers and agents.

The National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN) has announced a directive for its members across the country to commence a nationwide industrial action on October 1, 2026. This significant NASWDEN Nigeria strike October 1 2026 is a direct response to what the association describes as pervasive irregularities and unfair business practices plaguing the scrap metal industry. The planned industrial action scrap dealers Nigeria will effectively halt the supply of scrap metals to iron-smelting companies responsible for producing vital steel products, including iron rods.

Initially, the strike is slated to last for two weeks, concluding on October 15. However, NASWDEN has issued a warning that the cessation of supply could extend indefinitely if a satisfactory agreement is not reached with the affected iron and steel companies. The formal announcement was made in a statement released on a Thursday, signed by Mr. Ndubuisi Arini, the Public Relations Officer, acting on behalf of the National President, Engr. Luke Uchechukwu Ogbu. This impending action signals a potentially severe scrap metal supply chain disruption Nigeria, with significant implications for the nation's manufacturing sector.

The decision to initiate this widespread industrial action stems from a multitude of complaints voiced by NASWDEN members, detailing issues that profoundly impact their operational viability and financial stability. According to Comrade Alhaji Aminu Hassan Soja, the association's Deputy National President, a primary concern is the abrupt and often unannounced reduction in prices paid for scrap metals by certain steel companies. This practice, he noted, leaves dealers who have already invested in purchasing and transporting materials at previously agreed rates facing substantial financial losses.

NASWDEN estimates that such unexpected price cuts can result in losses ranging from ₦3 million to ₦6 million on a single truckload of scrap metal. Beyond the volatility of pricing, the association also protests against alleged deductions of between one and five percent by some companies, purportedly for 'extra dust.' This practice, according to NASWDEN, imposes an additional and unjust financial burden on scrap dealers, contributing significantly to the broader Nigeria scrap metal industry dispute.

Further compounding the industry's challenges, NASWDEN has raised serious alarms regarding the alleged involvement of foreign entities in the Nigerian scrap metal business. The association claims that some foreigners have established their own dumpsites and collection centers throughout the country, creating significant operational difficulties and competitive disadvantages for local Nigerian dealers. This influx, according to NASWDEN, disrupts established market dynamics and raises questions about fair competition and market access.

A critical concern for the association also revolves around the alleged procurement practices of some iron companies, which are reportedly purchasing scrap metals from unregistered dealers and agents. NASWDEN emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced verification and regulatory oversight to guarantee that all scrap metals supplied to steel companies originate from legitimate sources. This measure is deemed essential not only for fostering fair trade but also to actively prevent the illicit trade in vandalized public and private property, underscoring the importance of unregistered scrap dealers Nigeria compliance.

Despite the impending industrial action, NASWDEN has issued a strong appeal to its members to maintain peace and adhere strictly to legal guidelines throughout the strike period. The association explicitly cautioned against any acts of violence, confrontation, property destruction, or any other actions that could jeopardize public peace. This emphasis on peaceful protest reflects NASWDEN's stated commitment to resolving the underlying issues through constructive dialogue and negotiations with the affected iron and steel companies.

The association has also extended an appeal to relevant government agencies, key stakeholders within the iron and steel sector, and the general public to lend their support in finding a sustainable resolution to these grievances. The potential for a prolonged scrap metal supply chain disruption Nigeria, especially if the strike extends beyond its initial two-week period, underscores the urgency for all parties to engage in meaningful discussions to address the systemic issues plaguing the industry.

Lawyers and compliance officers for iron and steel companies in Nigeria should assess potential supply chain disruptions and contractual implications arising from this nationwide strike. They must also review procurement policies and due diligence processes to mitigate compliance risks associated with sourcing scrap metal, particularly concerning alleged unfair practices, unregistered dealers, and the trade in potentially vandalized property.

Source: Original reporting via Vanguard.