The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has announced a nationwide strike starting Monday, September 8, 2025, in response to Dangote Refinery's alleged attempts to impose "slavery" working conditions on its workforce. According to NUPENG, the refinery's management wants to prevent workers from exercising their right to freedom of association, effectively treating them like slaves.
Background of the Dispute
NUPENG claims that Dangote Refinery has formed a company-controlled union, the Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association (DTCDA), to compel drivers of its imported compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks to join instead of NUPENG, the statutorily recognized union for petroleum tanker drivers. NUPENG argues that this move is an attempt to undermine workers' rights and create a captive workforce.
NUPENG's Position
"We ask our members, members of the public, and independent-minded objective segments of the media to disregard DTCDA and its statements," said Williams Akporeha, NUPENG President, and Afolabi Olawale, General Secretary. "Ordinary Nigerians should neither encourage nor support slavish working conditions."
Reactions from Other Groups
However, not all groups support NUPENG's stance. The Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch has asked its members to ignore the strike notice, while the DTCDA has described the planned strike as "a disservice to Nigerians" ¹ ².
Implications of the Strike
The strike may disrupt the supply of petroleum products across the country, affecting various industries and the general public. NUPENG remains resolute in its decision, citing the need to protect workers' rights and prevent the exploitation of Nigerian workers ².
