Fuel shortages expected as NUPENG calls for nationwide strike

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has declared that its members will initiate a nationwide strike beginning on Monday, September 8, 2025, due to reported anti-union activities associated with Dangote Refinery’s use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks.

In a statement issued by National President Prince Williams Akporeha and General Secretary Afolabi Olawale, the union noted that Alhaji Aliko Dangote had revealed intentions to import 10,000 CNG trucks for the distribution of petroleum. Subsequently, NUPENG and the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) held discussions with Dangote’s representative, Alhaji Sayyu Dantata, who indicated that the trucks would function outside the framework of existing trade unions.

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The union further claimed that recruitment for drivers commenced on August 29, 2025, with applicants being required to sign agreements prohibiting them from joining oil and gas unions.

“The recruitment being carried out on the condition of not joining existing unions is a matter of serious concern to us. This requirement does not align with Nigeria’s Constitution, labour legislation, or international conventions on freedom of association.”

NUPENG cited Section 40 of the Constitution, Section 9(6) of the Labour Act, and ILO Convention No. 87, stressing that the practice violates workers’ rights. It also urged the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to “promote competition and prevent restrictive practices in the petroleum sector.”

“Having exhausted all available avenues of dialogue, we are left with no option but to embark on a nationwide industrial action beginning Monday, September 8, 2025.”

The union reassured Nigerians that the strike was intended to protect workers’ rights rather than create difficulties, and it asked for public support while urging the NLC and TUC to stand in solidarity. Additionally, it announced that members of its Petroleum Tanker Drivers Branch had been encouraged to look for alternative job opportunities or pursue skills training if the situation remains unresolved.

As of the time of reporting, the Dangote Group had yet to provide a response.