The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has confirmed that its nationwide strike over a labor dispute with Dangote Refinery will continue.
The strike was prompted by the refinery’s alleged anti-union policies, particularly its plan to bar drivers of its trucks from joining any union.
NUPENG President Williams Akporeha stated that the union had no choice but to press on with industrial action after Dangote’s management rejected recognized oil and gas unions and allegedly claimed to have a separate association for its workers. Akporeha alleged that the Dangote refinery created an alternative drivers’ association to weaken NUPENG, describing the move as illegal.
The strike has led to the shutdown of several facilities, including the Aradel refinery in Obele, Port Harcourt, and the Kwale Hydrocarbon facility in Delta State. Filling stations in some parts of the country have also been closed by NUPENG members.
The Federal Government, through the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, has summoned both parties for a conciliation meeting. However, the meeting ended in a stalemate, with NUPENG insisting that Dangote Refinery must recognize and respect workers’ rights to unionize.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed solidarity with NUPENG, while the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has warned of potential fuel shortages and economic disruptions.
The strike may lead to fuel shortages and price increases, economic disruptions and losses, and job losses and livelihood impacts on workers in the oil and gas sector.
NUPENG remains open to dialogue but insists that Dangote Refinery must play by the rules and respect workers’ rights. The union urges Nigerians to support their stance, describing the struggle as a fight to protect workers’ dignity and secure democratic workplaces.
