NASWDEN Begins 15-Day Strike Over Scrap Metal Price Cuts, Steel Quality

The National Association of Scraps and Waste Dealers and Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN) has commenced a 15-day nationwide warning strike over alleged price manipulation, substandard steel production and other practices by foreign-owned iron-smelting companies operating in Nigeria.

The strike, which began on Thursday, October 1, 2026, involves a total halt in the supply of scrap metals to the affected companies, according to the association.

Speaking at a press conference, NASWDEN Deputy National President, Comrade Amin Hassan Soja, said the strike would be suspended if the Federal Government and the companies addressed the association’s grievances.

He warned that the action could become indefinite if no agreement was reached within the 15-day warning period.

Soja said scrap dealers were suffering significant financial losses because of what he described as arbitrary reductions in the prices paid for scrap metals by steel companies.

He claimed dealers could lose between N3 million and N4 million on a single truckload following frequent price cuts.

The NASWDEN leader also accused some steel manufacturers of producing substandard iron rods by manipulating the sizes and quantities of products made from scrap metals supplied to them.

He alleged that some manufacturers convert 12mm iron rods into smaller sizes, resulting in finished products whose weight could be significantly lower than the quantity of scrap metal purchased from dealers.

Soja further accused some companies of manipulating weighing scales and deducting between one and five per cent from the weight of scrap supplied under what he called an “extra dose” arrangement.

He attributed some recent price reductions to global geopolitical developments, saying disruptions in international trade had led to increased imports of cheaply purchased steel-related materials into Nigeria.

He also criticised the establishment of dump sites by foreign companies, alleging that the practice was making it difficult for indigenous scrap dealers to compete.

Soja called on the Federal Government to intervene and ensure foreign steel companies focus on manufacturing rather than competing directly with local scrap dealers.

He said the scrap industry employs millions of Nigerians, particularly youths, and should be formally integrated into the economy.

The association said the Federal Government had commenced discussions with it through the Executive Secretary of the National Steel Council, Ambassador Abdelkader Fadi.

Soja said NASWDEN had submitted its grievances in writing and was awaiting further action.

He added that members nationwide had complied with the strike directive, with scrap trucks parked at various locations.

The association urged the government to urgently resolve the dispute, regulate steel manufacturers and protect the livelihoods of Nigerians engaged in the scrap and waste trade.