Dangote Petroleum Refinery has dismissed allegations by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) of suppressing workers’ rights, insisting it remains committed to employee welfare, job creation, and national economic growth.
In a statement on Thursday, the company stressed that staff are free to associate with recognised trade unions and denied claims of coercion. It said its ₦720 billion compressed natural gas (CNG) truck initiative is aimed at supporting Nigeria’s energy transition, projecting over 60,000 direct jobs with above-minimum wages, housing allowances, pensions, and insurance.
Addressing fears of monopoly, Dangote maintained that the downstream sector is deregulated with several refinery projects underway, adding that its operations have instead spurred competition, cut diesel prices by more than 30%, and helped stabilise petrol supply.
The refinery also rejected claims of planned fuel price hikes, noting that it has absorbed costs to keep prices stable while boosting nationwide supply. Since commissioning last year, it said, Nigeria has become a net exporter of refined fuels, stabilised foreign exchange flows, and generated over 570,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Dangote further highlighted contributions to infrastructure and skills development, positioning Nigeria as Africa’s refining hub. While reaffirming cordial relations with unions, it urged NUPENG to pursue constructive dialogue and avoid actions that could disrupt the country’s economic recovery.
