The Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has suspended its nationwide strike, following mediation by government agencies and security forces. The strike, which involved the suspension of fuel dispensing, was called off after intense negotiations between Dangote Refinery, the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), and relevant stakeholders.
According to a statement by PETROAN’s National Public Relations Officer, Joseph Obele, the association’s National President, Billy Gillis-Harry, directed members to resume fuel dispensing nationwide. This decision is expected to bring relief to Nigerians who faced disruptions and hardships during the short strike. PETROAN apologized for the inconvenience caused and acknowledged the challenges faced by citizens.
The strike was declared in solidarity with NUPENG, which alleged that Dangote Refinery was hiring new truck drivers on the condition that they do not join the union. However, after mediation by ministers, security agencies, and government agencies, including the Minister of Labour, the Minister of State for Petroleum, and the Executive Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), an agreement was reached.
PETROAN commended its members for their compliance with the strike directive and thanked the relevant stakeholders for their roles in resolving the dispute. The association also expressed gratitude to the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Inspector-General of Police for their contributions to the resolution.
With the strike suspended, normalcy is expected to return to the petroleum sector, and fuel dispensing is set to resume across the country. The development is a welcome relief for Nigerians who rely on petroleum products for their daily activities. The resolution of the dispute also highlights the importance of dialogue and mediation in addressing industrial disputes and ensuring the stability of the petroleum sector. As the sector returns to normal, Nigerians can expect a steady supply of fuel, and the economy can continue to function without disruptions.
