WELCOME ADDRESS DELIVERED BY COMRADE (PRINCE) WILLIAMS AKPOREHA

PROTOCOLS

The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Your Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,

Your Excellency, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor of Lagos State,

Your Excellencies, the Executive Governors of the South-West States and their representatives here present today;

The Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment;

The Honourable Minister of Petroleum Resources (Oil);

The Honourable Minister of Petroleum Resources (Gas);

Representative of IndustriALL, our international affiliate;

The President General of the Trade Union Congress and National President of PENGASSAN;

NARTO President;

PETROAN President;

Spiritual Fathers;

Elders, Veterans, and past leaders of NUPENG and other unions;

Traditional Rulers;

Captains of Industry;

Leadership of other Trade Unions present;

Comrades, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen;

The Media;

And above all, our highly respected delegates – the very lifeblood of this great Union.

It is with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of profound pride that I stand before you today. We have gathered in this vibrant city of Lagos, not merely for a routine meeting, but to reach the pinnacle of our Union’s democratic process. This 6th Quadrennial Delegates’ Conference represents the voice of every man and woman who keeps Nigeria’s oil and gas industry alive.

Let me state clearly: whatever we have achieved over the past four (4) years is first by the grace of Almighty God. Secondly, thanks to an environment that allowed us to serve. On behalf of every rank-and-file member, I extend our deepest gratitude to His Excellency, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor of Lagos State, for his unwavering hospitality in hosting this historic Conference.

I also offer a special salute to our dear Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, Engineer Bayo Ajulari, and his entire management team. Your steadfast support has been an unshakeable pillar of strength for Nigerian oil and gas workers.

We also acknowledge the invaluable support of the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammad Maigari Dangyadi, his dependable team, and especially the Director of Trade Union Services and Industrial Relations (TUSIR), Falonipe Amos, and the Registrar of Trade Unions.

Your commitment to the Nigerian worker has not gone unnoticed.

THEME: “JUSTICE AND POWER IN THE NIGERIAN INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS SYSTEM”

The theme we have carefully chosen directly confronts a painful irony. We workers tirelessly advocated for local content, yet some local players in the oil and gas industry have turned around to become the greatest threat to our welfare and dignity. To dissect this critical issue, we are honoured to have with us Folabi Kuti, SAN – a learned silk of exceptional repute, a friend of the worker, and a true ally of the labour movement.

THE JOURNEY SO FAR (2022–2026)

Let the records speak… This administration came into office on the 5th of April, 2022. Today, our tenure ends. To the glory of God and in service to our members, we gave our very best.

1. INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS (2022–2026)

The last four years saw robust engagements across all branches of the Union. We addressed in-house and outsourced member issues, contested redundancies, and vigorously pursued wage reopeners. As a direct result of our collective bargaining interventions, all our formal sector branches recorded significant improvements – some on two or three separate occasions. Joint Consultative Council meetings were convened and concluded successfully, averting major industrial disharmony.

2. ORGANIZING

We did not just defend; we expanded. Over fifty (50) new formal sector branches were organized across our four Zonal Councils – Kaduna, Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Warri – in the last four years.

THE LANDMARK – NUPENG TOWER

(Commissioned December 2024)

This seven-storey National Secretariat stands as a symbol of resilience and prudent financial management. Let me reinstate this here: it was executed without a single bank loan but with the efforts and sacrifices of all members of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers. Four of the seven floors are already leased out, creating an additional source of income that will cushion us against dwindling financial inflows for years to come. The commissioning was graced by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by our amiable Honourable Minister of Petroleum Resources (Oil), Dr. Heineken Lokpobiri.

UNION STAFF MATTERS

When we arrived, the Secretariat was staffed by a demoralized, aging workforce. Today, many have retired meritoriously, with their entitlements paid promptly. Others left voluntarily for educational pursuits abroad. We recruited new, capable hands, rewarded stagnation with well-deserved promotions, reviewed salaries under a revitalised staff CBA, and provided modern equipment. The crowning achievement – NUPENG Towers – a brand-new, conducive workspace commissioned in December 2024.

HEALTH INSURANCE AND LIFE INSURANCE FOR UNION STAFF

Comrade Delegates,

As we gather to reflect on our collective journey, let me place on record that this administration has prioritised the welfare of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes—our Union staff. For the first time in NUPENG’s history, our Secretariat staff have enjoyed comprehensive health and life insurance coverage. These benefits have guaranteed them access to quality healthcare and financial security in times of unforeseen need. It is a milestone that has significantly improved their conditions of service, and I am proud that we leave this legacy behind.

INTRODUCTION OF HEALTH INSURANCE FOR PETROLEUM TANKER DRIVERS ON WHEELS

Comrade Delegates,

It is with deep pride that I announce to this august gathering that our outgoing administration, beginning December 2023, in partnership with Leadway Health Insurance, launched a first-of-its-kind health insurance scheme tailored specifically for our Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) – the men and women “on the wheels.”

This landmark initiative ensures that our drivers, across every corner of Nigeria, can access quality and emergency healthcare while on duty. It reduces the risk of death or permanent injury from minor illnesses that were once neglected. By protecting the health of our drivers, we have not only safeguarded the backbone of our industry but also reaffirmed NUPENG’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of every member.

BIOMETRIC ID & DIGITALIZATION

The mandate to collate comprehensive membership data and issue biometric ID cards is 95% accomplished. The informal sector is fully completed and issued; formal sector data has been fully collated, and we are now in the final stage of card issuance – giving every member a secure, verifiable identity.

Similarly, our website and social media handles now disseminate information to members in a timely manner; this was not the case before now.

TRAINING WORKSHOPS

We have consistently convened annual National and Zonal Industrial Relations Workshops across all four councils, covering topics from industry dynamics to workers’ rights. Through our partners – Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES), Solidarity Center, the NLC, and IndustriALL Global Union – our members and staff have gained invaluable capacity and exposure.

THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY

• UPSTREAM

I warmly salute and commend the sustained industrial harmony between workers and management, especially at TotalEnergies Nigeria, NNPCL, Chevron Nigeria Limited, and Halliburton. This enduring peace reflects the maturity of both social partners and the supportive environment created by government.

I also commend the current administration’s oversight of two landmark transactions: the Renaissance Consortium’s complete acquisition of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC), and Oando PLC’s acquisition of 100% shareholding interest in Nigerian Agip Oil Company Limited (NAOC). Notably, these ownership changes were achieved without a single job loss—a remarkable feat demonstrating government’s commitment to protecting workers’ livelihoods while encouraging investment.

• MIDSTREAM

We acknowledge the progressive policies that have enabled the issuance of licences for new refineries and modular refineries. These initiatives have created meaningful employment for many Nigerians and accelerated our nation’s march toward energy independence. This is reform in action, and it deserves our collective commendation.

• DOWNSTREAM

On May 29, 2023, the fuel subsidy was removed. As a Union, we welcomed its end, given the deep-seated irregularities that plagued it. Nevertheless, we cannot ignore its reverberating impacts.

Government has promoted gas as a transition fuel and invested in CNG infrastructure—steps aligned with global climate realities and energy transition. However, we must emphasize: this transition must be just and fair. Many of our members, especially in the informal sector, have lost livelihoods. Sadly, the Union was not adequately carried along in planning.

We therefore appeal to government to reskill, retrain, and fund our members for a just transition. We remain optimistic that the challenges in gas penetration will be overcome through genuine collaboration between government, stakeholders, and NUPENG.

THE DANGOTE REFINERY STRUGGLE

Comrade Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen, you will recall that NUPENG supported the Dangote Refinery from inception to production and was very proud of the organisation when it came on stream. In fact, our Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) Branch played a pivotal role during its construction stages. However, when in June 2025, Alhaji Aliko Dangote announced plans to import thousands of CNG trucks to support the distribution value chains, we were happy as we believed it would create employment and improve seamless petroleum product distribution across the country and even beyond.

But in August 2025, drivers were recruited under restrictive conditions, forced to sign undertakings against union membership – a direct violation of Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution, Section 9(6) of the Labour Act, and ILO Convention No. 87 (1948). Subsequently, this created an industrial relations crisis between NUPENG and the management of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Ltd.

Although an MoU affirming workers’ rights was signed on September 8, 2025, subsequent actions – removal of union stickers, violation of loading rules, and involvement of security forces – constituted a breach of faith. The management then ran to court. NUPENG remains resolute on this matter as we will pursue every lawful avenue to ensure that workers at Dangote Refinery enjoy their full rights to union representation and collective bargaining.

STATE OF THE NATION

• Insecurity

From the North-East to the South-South, insecurity is hampering our operations. Incidents of petroleum truck hijacking and kidnapping have risen sharply. Our members now spend more to secure their businesses. We salute the courage of our security personnel, but we appeal to government to do more on their welfare and provision of more sophisticated equipment.

• ROADS NATIONWIDE

While acknowledging the efforts of the Federal Government on road infrastructure construction, it is important we bring to the attention of government that many economic roads still remain in impassable conditions, and NUPENG members who traverse the nook and crannies of the country, among other Nigerians, distributing petroleum products and rendering other services, bear horrible challenges. We hereby call for greater efforts as the rainy season approaches.

CONCLUSION

Comrade Delegates, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today is not an end. It is a democratic renewal. This Conference is the highest decision-making organ of our Union – where workers’ representatives deliberate, interrogate, and set the agenda for the next four years for a new leadership.

I came, I saw, and together we conquered – not for personal glory, but for the dignity of every man and woman who powers this nation from the oil and gas sector.

PASSAGES

On a solemn and inevitable note, we must acknowledge the painful reality that during our tenure, death visited our Union and claimed some of our most distinguished veterans. Foremost among them was Comrade Chief Frank Kokori, our revered former General Secretary, who took his final bow in December 2023.

In August 2025, we bid farewell to Comrade Joseph O. Ogbebor, another former General Secretary whose dedication shaped our path.

And in November 2025, Comrade Augustine Egbon, the National Chairman of the PTD Branch, was also called to eternal rest.

Though their departure reminds us of the certainty of mortality, their lives remain immortal in the legacy they left behind. In recognition of their immense contributions to NUPENG and the wider labour movement, we stood firmly to ensure each was accorded a befitting burial. Their service, their sacrifices, their legacies, and their spirit continue to inspire us. May their gentle souls rest in perfect peace.

SPECIAL APPRECIATION

Before I step aside, let me render a heartfelt and special appreciation.

To my right-hand man, a brother, a friend, a comrade, a thoroughbred professional who has held the Secretariat firm and steady through every storm – Comrade Afolabi Olawale, our General Secretary – I say thank you. Your intellect, your discipline, and your unwavering loyalty to this Union have been the bedrock of our administration. NUPENG owes you a debt that cannot be overstated.

To my two Deputies:

• Comrade Solomon Kilanko, whose patience and vast industry experience ensured stability. He equally oversaw the Preparatory Committee and Sub-Committees of this NDC functioned effectively.

• Comrade Prince Moses, who diligently oversaw the Constitutional Review Committee. Your loyalty is appreciated, Comrade.

To the entire National Executive Council (NEC)—Zonal Chairmen, Trustees, Ex-Officios, Branch officials—I salute you. To those NEC members who served in my first tenure but are not here today—whether departed, retired, or moved on—we sincerely appreciate your contributions and loyalty from the start of this journey to the finish.

To the Secretariat staff, both serving and retired—Comrade Adamu Song (our amiable former General Secretary who commenced this journey with us), Comrade Adamson Momoh (former DGS), Comrade Anthony Chukwu (former DGS)—your tireless efforts are deeply valued.

To our Baba, the father of the informal sector, Comrade Otunba Salimon Akanni Oladiti our outgoing National trustee -a true pillar of wisdom and strength. His deep knowledge of our industry and his unwavering readiness to support us whenever we called upon him will forever remain a guiding light. He stood with us, not just as a leader, but as a father figure whose counsel and presence enriched our journey.

To my twin brother in the industry, Comrade Osifo Festus, the President General of TUC and National President of PENGASSAN—it was amazing working with you. Thanks for all collaborations.

The same appreciation goes to the President and leadership of NARTO and PETROAN. I greatly thank you for the perfect relationship we shared.

To our elders and past leaders, though not all, but those that shared our vision and mission and had continued to stand by us with prayers and guidance, we appreciate you. Worthy to be mention here is  Comrade Fyneface Omeme, a former National Treasurer of the Union elder Dada Samuel, former President, Comrade ADAMU song (Funkiest Malam).Also very thankful to Right Hon. Com Peter Akpatason ,former President, Hon. Comrade Joseph Akinlanja former General Secretary, Comrade Omadoye Godwin former Warri Zonal Chaiman for being part of my humble beginnings as a union leader. Comrade Bassey Harry for being a great ambassador of our union as former Deputy president ,

We appreciate you sir. I would have love to go on and on but for time and space.

OUR UNION’S RESILIENCE

Distinguished Comrades, Ladies and Gentlemen, the road was not always smooth. There were attempts – by a few unscrupulous elements – to impose undemocratic ethos on our Union. There were those who sought to undermine our collective will, to short-circuit our constitution, and to plant seeds of division.

But I am proud to say, with the will of Almighty God, they failed. And because you, the delegates, the true owners of this Union, stood firm. Today, we are not leaving behind a fractured house. We are leaving behind a stronger, more resilient, more democratic NUPENG – a Union that has defended its members, expanded its reach, built its assets, and protected its soul.

To the incoming Executive: the baton is yours. Guard this Union jealously. Defend the rights of workers. Resist monopolistic control. And never forget that justice and power must always rest with the working class.

Thank you, and God bless NUPENG.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

COMRADE (PRINCE) WILLIAMS AKPOREHA

President, Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG)

April 24, 2026.