Nigeria’s petroleum sector is facing a significant disruption as the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has embarked on a nationwide strike. The action began on Monday, September 8, in response to a dispute with Dangote Refinery over alleged anti‑labour practices. NUPENG’s National President, Williams Akporeha, says the refinery plans to terminate the employment of 250,000 drivers because of their union affiliation. Since NUPENG members play a crucial role in petrol distribution, the strike could severely affect the country’s fuel supply.
The union decided to take industrial action after Dangote Refinery allegedly tried to force its employees to abandon union membership. NUPENG described this as a “slavery mentality” that undermines labour laws. Akporeha emphasized that the strike is in Nigeria’s best interest, aiming to protect workers’ rights and prevent exploitation by employers. He dismissed claims that NUPENG members intend to vandalise the refinery’s property, calling such allegations propaganda orchestrated by the refinery.
To resolve the dispute, Minister of Labour and Employment Muhammad Dingyadi scheduled a meeting between NUPENG and Dangote Refinery for Monday, September 8. Akporeha expressed optimism that the talks would lead to a resolution, stating that the union’s goal is not to cripple the economy but to safeguard its members’ rights.
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has appealed to both parties to reconcile, warning marketers against raising fuel prices during the crisis. IPMAN National President Abubakar Maigandi urged negotiation and a mutually beneficial solution. As the strike continues, fuel prices remain a concern. While most filling stations in Abuja have kept prices between N885 and N910 per litre, some, such as Empire filling stations, have raised their pump price to N950 per litre. NUPENG and IPMAN have warned that price hikes would exacerbate the situation.
The Nigerian government has urged NUPENG and the Nigerian Labour Congress to shelve the planned strike, citing potential economic impacts. With the strike already underway, the focus has shifted to finding a resolution through dialogue and negotiation. The outcome of the meeting between NUPENG and Dangote Refinery will be crucial in determining the next steps and mitigating the strike’s effects on the country’s petroleum sector.
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