The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) announced that it will suspend the lifting and dispensing of petroleum products for three days, beginning at midnight on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. National President Billy Gillis‑Harry made the disclosure in Abuja, and National Public Relations Officer Joseph Obele added that the shutdown will proceed only if consultations scheduled for Sunday and Monday do not produce a positive outcome.
The three‑day halt is intended to resist monopolistic practices in the downstream sector and to protect workers’ rights. PETROAN emphasized that the action will be peaceful and lawful, reaffirming its commitment to price stability and a productive industry. The association’s decision stems from concerns about the aggressive business approach of Dangote Refinery, which it believes could drive private depot owners, modular refineries, marketers, and transport operators out of business, leading to mass unemployment and worsening economic conditions.
Gillis‑Harry called on President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of State for Petroleum, and other relevant stakeholders to intervene urgently to prevent hardship for Nigerians. To ensure safety at member outlets during the industrial action, PETROAN has formed a 120‑member compliance team.
In an emergency ordinary national general meeting, PETROAN resolved to hold the Sunday‑Monday consultations and warned that, without a fruitful outcome, the shutdown will go ahead and the compliance team will be mobilized to protect members’ facilities. The association reiterated its commitment to working with stakeholders to promote healthy competition in the oil and gas sector, protect jobs, stabilize prices, and sustain Nigeria’s economy. Collaborative efforts, PETROAN believes, will create a conducive environment for workers, foster sector growth, and ultimately benefit the nation.
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