Dangote Petroleum Refinery has reaffirmed that association with any trade union remains strictly voluntary, in accordance with the Nigerian Constitution and International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions. The company stressed that it neither interferes with nor restricts its employees’ right to freely join legally recognised trade unions.
The statement was issued amid what the company described as a distortion of facts by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) concerning the refinery’s trade relations with its workforce.
Dangote Refinery reaffirmed its adherence to both Nigerian and international labour laws, stressing that trade union membership remains a voluntary choice.
Addressing allegations that drivers were forced to sign contracts barring union membership, the refinery categorically denied such claims. It advised NUPENG to focus on addressing its dispute with Petrol Tanker Drivers (PTDs), rather than embroiling Dangote in its conflicts with the unit.
“It is therefore misplaced to attribute responsibility to Dangote Petroleum Refinery for the personal choices made by drivers regarding union affiliation,” the company stated.
Dangote also dismissed accusations of union suppression as unfounded, viewing them as part of a broader campaign to undermine private sector progress. The company underscored its longstanding respect for labour rights and commitment to employee welfare and workplace safety.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery maintained that it has consistently supported labour unions, including NUPENG, by providing office space, operational vehicles for its use within the refinery and granting full access to their members and operations.
“Dangote Petroleum Refinery maintains a cordial and cooperative relationship with all recognised trade unions, including NUPENG.”
We have consistently supported their legitimate activities within our facility, including providing office space and enabling member engagement and dues collection without interference,” it said. It reiterated its support for ongoing mediation efforts by the Ministry of Labour and called on NUPENG to prioritise dialogue over disruption.
“We urge NUPENG to act in good faith, respect the ongoing dialogue process, and refrain from making statements that could undermine national economic recovery efforts led by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR,” it said.
