The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has announced that the Federal Government has begun discussions with its members to resolve issues surrounding a proposed nationwide strike. PETROAN’s National President, Billy Gillis‑Harry, said the primary concern is the alleged monopoly of the Dangote Refinery in the petroleum downstream sector. He listed the grievances that led to the strike declaration, focusing on the refinery’s purported monopolistic practices, and noted that the government is engaging downstream stakeholders to address the lingering problems.
PETROAN warned that, if the expected consultations fail, it will suspend the lifting and dispensing of petroleum products for three days, beginning Tuesday, 9 September 2025. The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has also confirmed plans to commence a nationwide strike, accusing Dangote Refinery management of exploitative labor practices. NUPENG President Williams Akporeha and General Secretary Afolabi Olufemi reiterated that the union had earlier announced the strike, citing alleged anti‑labour actions by the refinery.
The Dangote Refinery has been accused of bypassing traditional distribution channels by importing compressed natural gas (CNG)‑powered trucks to deliver fuel directly to retailers, and of restricting its employees from joining industry unions. In response, the Federal Government has urged NUPENG to reconsider its decision. Labour Minister Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi appealed to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to withdraw its red alert, emphasizing the need to preserve stability in this vital part of Nigeria’s economy.
PETROAN’s National President stressed that the association seeks an efficiently operating industry that serves Nigerians, advocating for a clearly defined role for all players in the sector. He highlighted the importance of cooperation among stakeholders to ensure consistent fuel prices, internal control, and the inclusion of all retail outlets in a union. The government’s engagement with PETROAN and other parties is a positive step toward resolving the issues surrounding the proposed strike. As the situation develops, continued collaboration will be crucial to finding a solution that benefits both the industry and the Nigerian people, while preventing disruptions in the petroleum sector and maintaining economic stability.
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