The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has confirmed that its members will commence a nationwide strike today, Monday, September 8, 2025, despite last-minute intervention by the Federal Government.
NUPENG President, Williams Akporeha, told The PUNCH that although the government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) had reached out to the union, there was “nothing concrete yet” to halt the strike.
“Yes, the strike starts today as planned. The Minister of Labour has invited us to a meeting in Abuja, but we cannot suspend our action until there is a real commitment,” Akporeha said.
Why NUPENG is Striking
The union’s grievances center on the Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s plan to import 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks for direct fuel distribution to retailers.
NUPENG alleges that the refinery:
- Refuses to allow recruited drivers to join unions, a move the union describes as unconstitutional and against international labour conventions.
- Is attempting to monopolize petroleum distribution, sidelining tanker drivers and threatening existing jobs.
In a joint statement signed by Akporeha and General Secretary Afolabi Olawale, the union said:
“Slavery ended centuries ago. Any worker who cannot exercise the right of association is no better than a slave. We will not sit back while our members’ jobs and rights are eroded.”
Government’s Intervention
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, confirmed that he has summoned all parties, including Dangote Refinery, to a conciliation meeting today in Abuja.
Dingyadi urged NUPENG to suspend the strike, warning of the devastating effects on the economy:
“A strike in the petroleum sector, even for just one day, will cause untold hardship for Nigerians and cost the government billions in lost revenue.”
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) had already placed its affiliate unions on “red alert” in solidarity with NUPENG.
Marketers Join the Fight
Petroleum marketers under the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) have backed NUPENG.
President Billy Gillis-Harry said filling stations nationwide would shut down if the strike begins:
“If pump attendants, who are NUPENG members, don’t show up, stations cannot operate. PETROAN will suspend fuel lifting and sales for three days starting Tuesday.”
He accused Dangote Refinery of aggressive practices that could drive independent depot owners, modular refiners, and marketers out of business, warning of mass unemployment.
Falana, NLC Back Workers
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) called on the Federal Government to stop Dangote Refinery from enforcing anti-union policies, describing them as unconstitutional and a breach of international labour laws.
NLC President Joe Ajaero also warned that the labour movement would fully mobilize if NUPENG’s demands are ignored.
Economic Rights Activists Oppose Strike
On the other hand, the Economic Rights Activists (ERA) have urged NUPENG and NLC to suspend the strike, warning that it would cripple businesses and worsen hardship for ordinary Nigerians.
ERA Executive Director, Dr Josiah Inuwa, described the action as “reckless and unpatriotic,” warning that transport fares, food prices, and energy costs would skyrocket if petroleum operations were disrupted.
What’s Next?
- NUPENG insists fuel loading will stop nationwide starting today.
- FG says it will press for dialogue at today’s Abuja meeting.
- Marketers and retail station owners are preparing to shut operations in solidarity.
The strike, if not resolved, could trigger severe fuel scarcity, inflation, and nationwide disruptions in the coming days.
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