Scrap metal dealers under the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN) have threatened to halt supplies to iron and steel companies nationwide. The industrial action is set to begin on October 1 and run until October 15, 2026, with the possibility of an indefinite extension if their grievances are not resolved.
The association made the announcement in a statement issued in Kano on Thursday by its Deputy National President, Aminu Hassan Soja, on behalf of National President Abdulfatah Ogunwale.
Why the Dealers Are Angry
NASWDEN accused some iron and steel companies of repeatedly cutting the prices they pay for scrap metals without giving dealers enough notice. Dealers who had already bought and transported materials at the old rates are left counting heavy losses.
According to Soja, a single truckload can wipe out between ₦3 million and ₦6 million from a dealer’s pocket the moment a company suddenly drops its buying price.
“The incessant and deliberate reduction in the prices of scrap metals without adequate prior notice has placed considerable financial pressure on our members,” Soja said.
The association also kicked against deductions of between one and five per cent that some companies impose under the label of “extra dust.” NASWDEN says the practice is just another way of shrinking dealers’ earnings.
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Foreigners and Unregistered Dealers
Beyond pricing, NASWDEN raised alarm over the growing involvement of foreign nationals in the scrap metal business. The association claimed some have set up dumpsites and collection centres in different parts of the country, making life harder for indigenous operators.
It also accused certain steel companies of buying scrap from unregistered or uncertified dealers and agents. NASWDEN warned that such practices could open the door for vandalised public and private property to enter the steel industry.
“The purchase of scrap from unregistered dealers and agents must be properly regulated and verified to ensure that materials entering the steel industry are obtained through legitimate channels,” Soja stated.
Call for Peace and Dialogue
National President Abdulfatah Ogunwale urged members to remain peaceful and law-abiding throughout the planned action. He directed them to avoid confrontation, violence, destruction of property or any act that could disrupt public order.
“We are seeking a fair and mutually acceptable resolution of these grievances through dialogue and negotiation with the iron and steel companies,” the association said.
NASWDEN called on relevant government agencies, stakeholders in the steel sector and the general public to support efforts aimed at resolving the dispute before the October 1 deadline.
For now, the message from the scrap dealers is clear: until the price cuts, the “extra dust” deductions and the free entry of unregistered operators are addressed, supplies to the nation’s iron and steel companies will stay off the road.
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Nimi Jack
