Lagos, Nigeria – February 2, 2026.

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG)- TEPNG Branch and the Management of TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited (TEPNG) formally opened their 2026 Annual Collective Bargaining Negotiations at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island.

The opening ceremony was attended by high-level delegations from both sides. NUPENG was led by Comrade Afolabi Olawale, General Secretary, who represented the National President, Comrade (Prince) Williams Akporeha. The TEPNG Management team was led by the Managing Director, Mr. Mathieu Bouyer.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Yakubu Belgore, Executive Director of TEPNG, welcomed the union and emphasized negotiation as a central mechanism for the company.

He commended NUPENG members for an exemplary safety record and stated that investing in people and protecting staff dignity are core goals.

Comrade Lucky Ogure, Chairman of the NUPENG TEPNG Branch, in his address, welcomed the dialogue but also raised concerns regarding communication gaps and unilateral management decisions that affect members. He stressed that transparency, process integrity, and fair consultation are fundamental to maintaining industrial harmony and trust. Comrade Ogure also commended the management and reaffirmed the union’s commitment to productivity and the company’s objectives, stating that the negotiation seeks alignment on sustainable workloads, fair compensation, and shared success.

Representing the NUPENG National President, Comrade Afolabi Olawale appreciated TEPNG for its consistent investment in Nigeria and its culture of engagement. He highlighted communication and the sanctity of agreements as pillars for trust and productivity.

The MD Mr. Mathieu Bouyer acknowledged the crucial role of employees, celebrated 2025 as an exceptional year for safety, and reaffirmed the company’s people-centric approach. He expressed management’s commitment to open, fact-based discussions aimed at reaching a durable and viable agreement.

Mr. Bouyer concluded the ceremony by officially declaring the 2026 Annual Collective Bargaining Negotiations open.

Suleiman M. Pema
Assistant General Secretary (Research & Public Affairs), NUPENG