NASWDEN Launches Nationwide Strike Against Steel Firms

The National Association of Scraps and Waste Dealers and Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN) commenced a 15-day nationwide warning strike on October 1, 2026, due to alleged price manipulation and substandard steel production by foreign-owned iron-smelting companies in Nigeria. Deputy National President Amin Hassan Soja stated that the strike involves a complete cut-off of scrap metal supplies to these companies.

He indicated that financial losses for scrap dealers could reach between N3 million and N4 million per truckload due to frequent price reductions. Soja accused some manufacturers of producing substandard iron rods by altering sizes and weights of products made from scrap metals.

He also claimed that companies manipulated weighing scales, deducting up to five percent from the weight of scrap supplied. The association is seeking Federal Government intervention to formalize the scrap industry and provide support for local dealers.

Discussions have already begun with the Executive Secretary of the National Steel Council, Ambassador Abdelkader Fadi.