The crucial meeting convened by the Federal Government to resolve the ongoing dispute between the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Dangote Group concluded on Monday without an agreement.
The high-level consultative session, which included executives from NUPENG, representatives of the Dangote Group, and other key stakeholders, ended in a deadlock, prolonging the tensions that have threatened to disrupt the nation’s fuel supply chain.
The meeting, which was initially scheduled for 3:00 PM but commenced after 5:00 PM, was chaired by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi.
In his opening remarks, the minister emphasised the importance of the dialogue, noting that such disputes between labor and employers in the oil industry were not uncommon and required urgent resolution. However, at the time of reporting, no official statement had been released by the minister, NUPENG leadership, or the Dangote Group regarding the outcome.
According to sources close to the discussions, details remain unclear, but it appears no consensus was reached. One industry stakeholder mentioned that the situation would become clearer by Tuesday.
The National President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Abubakar Maigandi, underscored the need for a sustainable resolution, warning that the impasse affects all Nigerians.
Meanwhile, NUPENG continued its industrial action, shutting down major depots and several filling stations in Lagos and Warri. The strike has already led to increased transportation costs in Warri, and there are growing concerns that a prolonged dispute could lead to nationwide fuel scarcity and price hikes.
Other industry groups, including the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria and the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria, have threatened to join the strike, which could exacerbate the situation.
The conflict stems from allegations by NUPENG that the Dangote Group is engaging in anti-labour practices, particularly in its plan to deploy compressed natural gas trucks for petroleum distribution, which the union claims undermines workers’ rights. The Dangote Group has maintained its stance, insisting on implementing its policies.
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cc: Daily Post NG
