Truck drivers in Nigeria have voiced opposition to a planned strike by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) over a dispute with Dangote Refinery. The Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association (DTCDA) argues that NUPENG’s decision to strike is unwarranted in a deregulated downstream sector and contradicts the freedom of association guaranteed by Nigeria’s 1999 constitution.
NUPENG had instructed its members to begin a strike on Monday, 8 September 2025, citing alleged anti‑labour practices by Dangote Refinery’s management. The DTCDA, however, contends that such action is not justified, especially in an economy where workers should be free to choose the union or association that best serves their interests without coercion or manipulation. The association urged the federal government to intervene and prevent the strike, warning that it could disrupt the distribution of petroleum products across the country.
Emphasizing that any obstruction to the smooth flow of petroleum products would be a disservice to the nation and an abuse of union power, the DTCDA reaffirmed its support for the deregulation of the downstream sector and the government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which aims to promote economic growth and development. Opposition to NUPENG’s strike is not limited to the DTCDA; other stakeholders in the petroleum tanker driver community have also called on members to ignore the strike notice.
The episode underscores the complexities of labour relations in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, where different unions and associations often have competing interests. As the situation unfolds, the federal government’s response will be crucial in preventing economic disruptions and ensuring the uninterrupted distribution of essential products.
Comments are closed for this story.