The National Association of Scraps and Waste Dealers and Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN) has initiated a 15-day nationwide warning strike starting October 1, 2026, in response to alleged unfair practices by foreign-owned steel companies operating in the country. The strike aims to address issues such as price manipulation and the production of substandard steel, which the association claims are adversely affecting local scrap dealers.

During a press conference, NASWDEN's Deputy National President, Amin Hassan Soja, highlighted the severe financial losses that scrap dealers are facing due to what he described as arbitrary price reductions by steel manufacturers. He indicated that dealers could incur losses ranging from N3 million to N4 million on a single truckload of scrap metal as a result of these ongoing price cuts.

Soja accused some steel manufacturers of producing substandard iron rods by altering the sizes and weights of the products made from scrap metals supplied to them. He alleged that certain manufacturers were converting 12mm iron rods into smaller sizes, leading to discrepancies in the weight of finished products delivered to customers. Additionally, he claimed that some companies were manipulating weighing scales, deducting between one and five percent from the weight of scrap supplied under an arrangement he termed as an "extra dose."

The NASWDEN leader connected the recent price drops to global geopolitical factors, noting that disruptions in international trade have allowed foreign companies to import steel-related materials at lower prices, further undermining local scrap dealers. He expressed concern over the establishment of dump sites by foreign companies, which he argued was driving indigenous scrap dealers out of business due to their inability to compete on pricing.

Soja called for immediate intervention from the Federal Government, urging that foreign steel companies should focus on manufacturing rather than competing with local dealers for scrap collection. He emphasized the importance of the scrap industry, which employs millions of Nigerians, particularly youths, and called for its formal integration into the Nigerian economy.

"We want the Federal Government to come in and formalise the sector and collaborate with us. The government should also provide intervention funds to scrap traders so that indigenous Nigerians can establish companies similar to those being established by foreign investors," Soja stated.

He revealed that discussions had already begun between the Federal Government and the association, facilitated by Ambassador Abdelkader Fadi, the Executive Secretary of the National Steel Council. The association has submitted its grievances in writing and is currently awaiting a response from the relevant ministry.

As the strike commenced, Soja confirmed that members across the nation complied with the directive, with trucks carrying scrap metals parked in various locations. He assured that the industrial action remained peaceful, with no activities disrupting public order. NASWDEN has urged the Federal Government to urgently intervene, regulate the operations of steel manufacturers, and protect the livelihoods of millions involved in the scrap and waste trade.