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By Emmanuel Ajibulu Family, friends and well-wishers came together on Tuesday, November 17, 2020 to relate their experiences with the late founding President of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Comrade John Enas Dubre, during a service of songs held at his residence in Surulere, Lagos. The well attended ceremony was conducted by Reverend Father Victor Okhiria and his team from St Anthony Catholic Church Gbaja, Surulere, a church late Comrade Dubre was known to be a key and respected congregant. Among the sympathizers who honoured the late Union leader were National President of NUPENG, Comrade [Prince] Williams Akporeha and Comrade Olawale Afolabi, the General Secretary of NUPENG, also Comrade Alex Agwanwor (Treasurer) and Comrade Monday Osunde (Trustee). In solidarity with NUPENG in the griefing moment, the President of Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Comrade Festus Osifo also registered his presence. Others on the role call were Deputy General Secretaries of NUPENG in charge of Finance and Account and Admin, Comrade Anthony Chukwu and Comrade Chris Akpede, Comrade Adamson Momoh (PAGS Research/Public Affairs), exco members of Lagos Zonal Council of NUPENG led by the Chairman and the Vice, Comrade Tayo Aboyeji, and Comrade Oluwasegun Ekun as well ss NUPENG Secretariat staff. Also at the event were some notable veterans of the Union like the former Presidents, Comrade Brisbe Awe, Comrade Igwe Achese and a former General Secretary, Comrade Joseph Iranola Akinlaja, they all made physical appearance at the wake-keep ceremony and as well commiserated with the family of the departed. The event however gave opportunity to others who couldn't make it to the venue especially those in diaspora to join through zoom, a web-based video conferencing tool.

PRESS STATEMENT The National leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) is deeply pleased and elated to lend its voice in reigniting consciousness in the minds of all stakeholders towards a purposeful development as the continent commemorates the 2020 edition of the Africa Industrialization Day, which is being observed on November 20 of every calendar year. As a trade Union body and also a socially responsible organisation, we found it appropriate and worthwhile to encourage Africa to leverage its abundant human and natural resources with creativity and innovation to fast-track industrialization, economic development and regional integration with cooperation as well as sincerity of purpose to engender faster collective growth and prosperity. Undoubtedly, industrialization is a primary driver of economic growth and job creation, and will be pivotal in efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Africa Union’s Agenda 2063, therefore all hands must be on deck to make these laudable visions fruitful, achievable and enduring. Consequently, African leaders, policy makers, captains of industries, employers of labour and the citizenry must work in synergy and continue to highlight the links between industrial development and Africa’s moves towards establishing a Continental Free Trade Area; these are mutually supportive endeavours that shouldn't be trivialized. More pointedly, there is need for strategic investments in cross-border infrastructure so as to consciously advance both trade and industrial capacity, promoting green technologies and low-carbon solutions, all of these will help to create compelling opportunities for increased commerce and industrialization alike. Similarly, small and medium enterprises, which already contribute 80 per cent of the continent’s Gross Domestic Product and support 90 per cent of all jobs, will remain key actors. Governments, business and civil society will need to forge partnerships to spur innovation and create incentives to power sustainable growth. It will also be critical to unleash the capacities of Africa’s young people and to strengthen African institutions. Both the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063 must recognize and embrace these imperatives. On Africa Industrialization Day 2020, NUPENG once again urges all critical players to foster strong commitment towards supporting Africa’s industrialization, the implementation of a continental free trade agreement, and the building of inclusive, resilient, peaceful and prosperous societies for all. May God bless and prosper Africa. Our solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us strong. SIGNED: COMRADE WILLIAMS ENIREDONANA AKPOREHA, NUPENG National President, COMRADE AFOLABI OLAWALE, General Secretary.

By Emmanuel Ajibulu Precious Akporeha, son of the National President of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers [NUPENG], Comrade Williams Akporeha, married his heartthrob, Mokunfayo, on Saturday, November 14,2020. People from all walks of life gathered at 10 Degrees Event Centre in Oregun, Lagos, venue of the reception ceremony, The love birds had earlier on Saturday tied the nuptial knot at The Redeemed Evangelical Mission in Gbagada where spiritual blessings were served to make the marriage fruitful and prosperous. On hand to witness the high profile banquet and gathering were diplomats, technocrats, businessmen, captains of industry, stalwarts of NUPENG and PENGASSAN and other key stakeholders in the downstream and upstream sectors of the Nigeria oil and gas industry. They all trooped out in enthusiasm in their hundreds to felicitate with celebrants. The dignitaries at the occasion included NNPC Group Managing Director, Mallam Mele Kyari, Deputy Majority Leader of the House of Reps. Rt. Hon. Peter Akpatason, representative of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, National President and the Deputy President of NLC, Comrade Ayuba Wabba and Comrade Joe Ajaero; President of PENGASSAN, Comrade Festus Osifo as well as the General Secretary of NUPENG, Comrade Olawale Afolabi. Also in attendance were National Chairman of Petroleum Tanker Drivers Branch of NUPENG and his Deputy, Comrade [Otunba] Salimon Akanni Oladiti [JP], Comrade Lucky Osasua; NNPC Group Executive Council (GEC) Chairman, Comrade David Idache, the two Deputy Presidents of NUPENG, Comrade Solomon Kilanko, and Comrade Harry Bassey; Chairman Lagos Zonal Council of NUPENG, Comrade Tayo Aboyeji, Chairmen of other Zones of NUPENG. Deputy General Secretaries of NUPENG in charge of Admin and Finance, Comrade Akpede Christopher, Comrade Anthony Chuckwu; NUPENG National Treasurer and Trustee, Comrade Alex Agwanwor, Comrade Monday Osunde, PAGS in charge of Research and Public Affairs, Comrade Adamson Momoh, Chairman and Deputy Chairman of Lagos Zonal Council of PTD, Comrade Olabisi Akinlolu [JP] and Comrade [Alhaji] Gbolahan Adigun, to mention a few.

PRESS RELEASE The leadership of NUPENG viewed gory images of Tuesday night (20/10/2020) shootings of peaceful #endsars protesters at Lekki toll gate with sadness, heavy hearts and deep concerns. Without any iota of doubt, the unfortunate incident fell short of any acceptable minimum global and civilized standards of managing peaceful Protest in any democratic system. Our hearts bleed for our youths who lost their lives or got injured in that senseless action of the armed security agents of government. Our deepest thoughts and prayers are equally extended to their families as well. We ask our members nationwide to stay calm and safe at their various workplaces and be on alert as the leadership reviews the situation. Our Solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us strong. Signed: Comrade (Prince) Williams Akporeha National President of NUPENG, Comrade Afolabi Olawale General Secretary.

PRESS RELEASE You will recall our long drawn battles and struggles to get terminal benefits for Thirty Nine (39) Union members whose employment were terminated dubiously by Mr ADOLOR of Valiant Energy Services West Africa and who had for several months been so evasive and elusive to be held responsible for the payment of the final entitlements of these workers until the Union smoked him out with our collective struggle. We are very pleased to inform you all, that finally we have been able to secure firm agreement (witnessed by GM Services of NAPPIMS and guaranteed by SHELL management) for the payment of the entire final entitlements of the Thirty Nine (39) and all the crew members currently on the Rig of FRIGG under Valiant Energy Services employment including all the catering staff. This struggle was won after what appears to be the longest strike on any rig platform in Nigeria. The strike lasted fifteen (15) good days with victory at last.. The negotiation for this landmark agreement was executed in the most professional manner under the able leadership of our national president, Comrade (Prince) Williams Akporeha. We use this opportunity to appreciate the support of the DSS, Federal Ministry of Labour, NAPIMS and the management of SHELL. We also appreciate Staff that spent sleepless nights to make this happened. This victory is for all of us and the working masses. Thank you all. Our solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us strong. SIGNED: COMRADE WILLIAMS ENIREDONANA AKPOREHA, NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG, COMRADE AFOLABI OLAWALE, GENERAL SECRETARY OF NUPENG.

PRESS STATEMENT NUPENG stands with Nigerian youths against Police brutality and call for immediate and far reaching Police reforms as our members are as well victims of Police brutality and abuses through extortion, detention, harassment and intimidation nationwide. Meanwhile, no organ of our Union has ordered shutting down of fuel stations or oil installations. We sincerely empathize with all victims of police brutality including our members across the country and we peacefully join all well meaning Nigerians to say POLICE BRUTALITY MUST STOP! Long live Federal Republic Of Nigeria! SIGNED: COMRADE WILLIAMS ENIREDONANA AKPOREHA, NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG,   COMRADE OLAWALE AFOLABI, NUPENG GENERAL SECRETARY.

By Emmanuel Ajibulu Full construction works is officially underway as National Leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) signed contractual agreement with TELISOL LIMITED for the take-off of the building of NUPENG Tower. The epochal event took place at the National Secretariat of NUPENG at No 9, Jibowu street, Yaba, Lagos on Wednesday September 2, 2020. On hand to receive the management of TELISOL for the signing of the accord were the National President and General Secretary of NUPENG, Comrade (Prince) Williams Eniredonana Akporeha, Comrade Afolabi Olawale as well as the National Treasurer, Comrade Alex Agwanwor. Other members of the national executive who witnessed the signing of the agreement were two Deputy General Secretaries of the Union in charge of Finance/Accounts and Administration, Comrade Anthony Chukwu and Comrade Christopher Akpede. Also in attendance was the Principal Assistant General Secretary in charge of Research, Media and Public Affairs, Comrade Adamson Momoh. NUPENG Tower is a multi billion naira project, a mix structure of residential, recreational and office building of eight floors with all the services including lift, adequate car park, water treatment facility, event/conference halls, offices for NUPENG staff, officials and corporate bodies, flats and a penthouse. The project is expected to be completed within a period of two years. Record however shows that TELISOL LIMITED is a seasoned and leading construction company that offers a wide range of services with interest to develop opportunities in Urban Development and selected industry sectors in Nigeria. It also has history of providing a full slate of construction and facilities-related services – from pre-construction planning and integrated consulting capabilities to comprehensive construction management, close-out and facility management services – for clients across various markets with a broad range of multi-faceted services – executed via a proven and highly disciplined process.

By Emmanuel Ajibulu The National leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has formally inaugurated a new Executive Council for Engine Lubricant Dealers (ELD) Branch of the Union on Tuesday, September 1st, 2020 with Comrade Gabriel James Omo-Oba as the National Chairman. The inauguration ceremony which started around 2:10pm was coordinated by NUPENG Principal Organizing Secretary, Comrade Lanre Aiyedun, while Principal Assistant General Secretary on Research and Public Affairs, Comrade Adamson Momoh administered the oath of office on the new branch executives at the National Secretariat of the Union at Jibowu, Yaba, Lagos. In his opening remarks, the General Secretary of NUPENG, Comrade Afolabi Olawale congratulated the new executive members and urged them to promote the policy thrust of NUPENG, while also admonishing them to be diligent, transparent and to place the interest of the Union above all other interests. He also encouraged them to see to the expansion and increase in the numerical strength of ELD across Nigeria. ‘’I congratulate all of you for coming out victorious in your last election which was adjudged to be peaceful, free and fair, transparent and credible. But the leadership is not particularly happy with your branch; you have not lifted the branch beyond the same elementary level it was, many years ago. The ball is now in your court to prove yourselves as new breed of leadership that can make a difference and as well add value.’’ Comrade Afolabi continues, ‘‘Let me also let you know that no Branch Executive would be allowed to hold more than one position in the branch. Such individuals with dual or multiple positions would have to relinquish one for another. It's high time we reorganized this branch and the responsibility lies in the hands of every one of you. Note also that you need to step up your revenue base, you must move beyond paying cheque-off-dues of N30,000 on a monthly basis, you must increase it to N150,000 henceforth and I can assure you that it is doable, its not an uphill task at all.’’ Let me also bring to your notice that the leadership of NUPENG is unrepentant in providing adequate and quality service to members through the introduction of fool-proof biometric identity card for the informal sector of our Union so that we can have robust data base and as well bring discipline and proper coordination to the Union membership. This branch is expected to set up a Committee that will appoint zonal coordinators to drive this process so that members can be properly registered and captured adequately. The registration form is N5,000, the secretariat can guide you about the procedures.’’ The General Secretary stated. While delivering his own remarks, the National President of NUPENG, Comrade (Prince) Williams Akporeha who earlier offered the floor to the General Secretary to speak to the branch Executive Council led the members in a solidarity song and ended it by extolling the virtues of the General Secretary, Comrade Afolabi Olawale for speaking to the real issues affecting the ELD branch and for also suing for paradigm shift. ‘’Today, it is my great pleasure to be in your midst to witness this auspicious ceremony and I have no doubt that this new breed of leaders will do the entire Union proud. I want to also say here that I completely agree with the GS in all the comments he made earlier about this branch. This is an old branch and sadly it’s still at the bottom of the table this has to stop as soon as possible.’’ The Comrade President added: ‘‘We are making a clarion call to this new executive to move this branch from the bottom of the table and probably to the top of the table within the shortest possible time. Comrades, the mandate and the mantle are all in your hands to move this branch forward. You are now the new Ambassadors and you must raise your heads high and do us proud in your respective leadership capacities in the overall interest of the Union.’’ Other members of the National leadership of NUPENG who were in attendance at the ELD inauguration included the Deputy General Secretary of NUPENG (Admin), Comrade Christopher Akpede and the National Treasurer, Comrade Alex Agwanwor.

PRESS RELEASE The leadership of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) announces the death of the founding National President of our great Union, Comrade John Enas Dubre at the age of 82. Comrade John Dubre was a former staff of AGIP Oil Company from where he rose from shop stewards to the highest position of the National President of NUPENG from 1977-1983. In recognition of his sterling qualities as a Trade Union leader, he was also elected the Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) when Comrade Hassan Sunmonu was the President. The late Comrade Dubre, an ex- boy of the famous Urhobo College, Warri was a brilliant and dogged labour leader who laid enduring foundation for the protection and projection of the rights and privileges of oil and gas workers in Nigeria. Late Comrade Dubre was a bold and tireless fighter, defender of workers’ rights. Our indomitable late founding President was a torn in the flesh of anti-Labour managements in the oil and gas industry during his hey days in trade unionism. Even while on wheel- chair, he remains active and constantly in touch with the Union and participated actively at the 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Union in Abuja in December 2018. He will be greatly missed by the Union for his fatherly advices, counsels and support till his last hours on earth. May his soul Rest In Peace. Signed: COMRADE (PRINCE) WILLIAMS AKPOREHA, National President , COMRADE AFOLABI OLAWALE General Secretary.

PRESS RELEASE The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) have suspended the 7-day ultimatum it issued Chevron Nigeria Limited and its Contractors over the sack of workers through WhatsApp and other anti labour actions and postures. The suspension was ordered by the leadership of the Union following the immediate recall and reinstatement of the sacked workers and the on-going discussions to quickly resolve other outstanding issues. However, NUPENG reiterates that the suspension of the strike ultimatum is not a total call off but a respect to on-going discussions the Union is having with Chevron and it Contractors over all the issues at stake believing that management will act in good faith and decently in line with principles of social dialogue. The leadership of the Union appreciates all relevant Government Agencies for their quick interventions on the matters in dispute. Signed: COMRADE (PRINCE) WILLIAMS AKPOREHA National President, COMRADE AFOLABI OLAWALE, General Secretary.

PRESS STATEMENT The National leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) urgently wishes to draw the attention of the general public and various concerned authorities to the unending and ever recurring anti labour Union posture of Chevron Nigeria Limited and its service contractor(s), the latest of which is the termination of services of the One Hundred and Seventy Five (175) Contract workers in YKISH lntegrated Services for the offsite/onsite maintenance services with Chevron Nigeria Limited, Delog Nigeria Ltd and EUROFLOW Services, all Service Contractors to Chevron Nigeria Ltd basically because of the Contract workers declaration to be members of the Union. NUPENG is seriously disturbed and pained about the flagrant disrespect for the extant labour laws and abdication of all forms of sensitivities by Chevron Nigeria Ltd and its Contractors to the extent that the employment of these workers were terminated via WhatApp messages into workers respective mobile telephone. lt was such an appalling, callous and very heart rendering approach to industrial relations practice at this age and time. The psychologically and emotionally trauma experienced by the sacked workers due to the callous and wicked manners Chevron Nigeria Limited through its Contractors sacked these workers is horrendous and deeply tortuous as the method made them feel less-human and utterly depressed. We wish to emphasize here, that this lack of respect and sensitivity to Nigerian extant labour law, international conventions and global best practices is gradually becoming the stock in trade for Chevron Nigeria Limited and its various Contractors as there are still several other lingering infractions and issues against hapless workers yet to be addressed by Chevron Nigeria Limited and its Contractor even after several regulatory institutions like Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Department of Petroleum Resources and NAPIMS had severally ruled on these matters. These include among others: 1. lllegal Deduction of Workers' Benefits in BIG SIX since the year 2012 and flagrant refusal to refund back to the terminated workers the excess deductions made in their meager terminal benefits; 2. Continuing discrimination against Contract Workers as evident by the refusal Chevron Management to pay quarantine allowances to Contract Workers as it was done for all permanent workers, whereas they are all contributing to the production and profits of the organization and suffered same inconveniences during the period of quarantine. 3. lncitement of Host Communities against NUPENG members in virtually all its locations of operations; 4. Connivance with Pyrammidt Nigeria Limited to deny recognition to workers right to belong to an industrial Union 5. Refusal to pay for the 2018 annual vacation not taken and not paid for. As a responsible and very responsive organization, we are very mindful of the magnitude and spiral effects of our industrial actions to the economy of our great country while at the same time we owe our members the duties to promote, project and protect their job interests. In the light of the above therefore, we are calling on the general public, the media and all concerned authorities in country and the industry including Minister of State for Petroleum, Chief Timipre Sylva, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Group Managing Director of NNPC, Mallam Mele Kyari, National Assembly, law enforcement agents and the Embassy of the United States of America to call Chevron and its service contractor(s) to order on these matters to avert avoidable industrial action from the Union. The sacked Contract workers must be recalled back to work immediately, status quo maintained, while Chevron Nigeria Limited and its Contractors properly engage the leadership of the Union on all these matters raised for firm and final resolutions. ln the interest of industrial peace and harmony, OUR DEMANDS must be met within the next seven days (7 Days) otherwise we may be forced to call out all our members on a nationwide industrial action. Consequent upon this, all NUPENG members are by this press release put on red alert. Our solidarity remains constant!!! for the Union makes us strong!!! Signed: Comrade (Prince) Williams Eniredonana Akporeha, NUPENG National President, Comrade Olawale Afolabi, NUPENG General Secretary.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the United Labour Congress (ULC) have settled their lingering crisis that split the labour movement in the country. The President of NLC, Comrade Ayuba Wabba, disclosed this at a joint meeting of the two labour unions in Abuja on Thursday, July 16, 2020. The briefing was attended by the President of the ULC, Comrade Joe Ajaero, NUPENG National President, Comrade (Prince) Williams Eniredonana  Akporeha and other executive members of the union. Comrade Ajaero was subsequently announced as the new Deputy President of the NLC at the high profile meeting. It would be recalled that Ajaero-led faction of NLC announced the birth of the ULC, with over 25 affiliates including some aggrieved affiliates of Trade Union Congress (TUC), on December 18, 2016.

Members of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) today, Thursday July 9, 2020 simultaneously staged two separate peaceful protests at the Victoria Island, Lagos and Trans Amadi Layout, Port Harcourt offices of Variant Energy Services, over what it described as anti labour practices by the company. The picketing began very early in the morning with the affected workers holding placards with various inscriptions and chanting solidarity songs to drive home their legitimate demands from their recalcitrant employer. Some of the inscriptions on the placards read: ‘’Enough is enough over master–slave dialectic’’, ’’ Workers are not slaves’’, ’’Pay us our terminal benefits’’, ’’Pay us our money’’, "there shall be no peace for debtors’’. Further inscriptions on the placards are "We say no to Variant Energy anti Labour posturing",  "Variant Energy thief!!!", "Operation pay us our money on course", "EFCC do your job on Valiant Energy!", "Variant Energy  must be punished for violating labour/employment guidelines", "injury to one is injury to all, Variant Energy must repent in the interest of industrial peace", "NUPENG can no longer be hoodwinked" etc. Reacting to the protest in Lagos Comrade Tayo Aboyeji, Chairman of NUPENG Lagos Zone, said the Union is a law abiding one but its patience and understanding have been taken for granted by Variant Energy Services as well as their collaborators. He stressed that the action of the management of the company is somewhat provocative and an affront to the global best practices, decency and integrity in the oil and gas industry. Comrade Aboyeji strongly condemned the unlawful termination of the employment of NUPENG members on the 28th of October, 2019 in very dubious manner and in violation of provisions of the extant labour law and failure of the management of Valiant Energy Services to pay the terminal benefits of the affected workers. The well organized trade unionists in their large numbers defiled early morning downpour all wearing face masks and carefully observing social distancing protocols and guidelines maintained that they can no longer tolerate the flippant attitude of the management of the company and their principal company, Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited. Similarly, the Admin Head of the Port Harcourt Zonal office of NUPENG, Comrade Chinda Ejims on his part decried the flagrant refusal of the management to honour the path of peaceful negotiation and also frowned at the use of COVID-19 pandemic and slide in the global crude oil prices as part of the excuses to inhumanly and retrogressively rationalize anti labour practices at the expense of the already impoverished and depressed workers. He noted that indecent work conditions, nonpayment of severance package for workers whose jobs had been terminated laden with flagrant and unprocedural behaviour would be justifiably resisted at all cost.

ADDRESS DELIVERED BY THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG, COMRADE (PRINCE) WILLIAMS AKPOREHA AT THE END OF THE VIRTUAL NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL (NEC) MEETING OF THE UNION ON JULY 2^ND, 2020 Gentlemen of the Press, I am very delighted to welcome you all to the National Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to share with us some of the outcomes and resolutions taken at the end of the Virtual National Executive Council meeting of our great Union today. I wish to use this medium to commend the media for the wonderful work the media has been rendering to humanity even in this period of Covid-19 pandemic, through education and information to the public. We are all aware that Covid-19 pandemic has profoundly altered every aspects of humanity. New Socio- economic realities have been foisted on the world and everyone has been forced into accepting the new world order. There is also no denying the fact that Covid-19 pandemic has taken massive toils on all working people all over the world. Many have lost their lives, some infected and many others lost their sources of income and livelihood. COMMENDATIONS Gentlemen of the Press, on behalf of the leadership of our great Union, we want to specially call out for appreciation and commendations, all our indomitable and irrepressible members who in the face of all the risks and challenges of the period, have been out there day and night working hard to keep the economy of our great country running and productive. These are highly productive and patriotic Nigerians in crude oil and natural gas prospecting, drilling, refining and distribution including but not limited to the Petroleum Tanker Drivers, Petrol Stations Workers, Depot Workers, Independent/ Major Marketers Workers etc. We salute your courage, commitment and selfless service to the nation. You have kept our nation moving and the wheels of the machines in our factories running. Through your gallant efforts the economy of our great nation refuses to go under. The good Lord will reward you in multiple folds. The Union is aware that some of them in the course of carrying out these onerous tasks have been infected and murdered by Security Agents during this period. We commiserate with the families of those who lost their beloved ones and empathize with those affected and infected by the pandemic. We assure all of you of our continuing prayers and support to you and your families. Let me also on behalf of the leadership appreciate some of our employers who have been consistently showing empathy and support to their workers during this trying period. We are aware and recognize the fact that businesses have also suffered so many setbacks during this period and every employer that still respects and guarantees worker’s rights and benefits deserves our appreciation and commendations. Prominent amongst these companies who have shown remarkable empathy and support to Workers at this auspicious times include Indorama Eleme Petrochemical Plc in Port-Harcourt, Chevron Nigeria Limited and to a great extent, Total E&P and Total Nigeria, we hope that other international oil companies (IOC’s) like Exxon Mobil, Shell Petroleum Development Company and indigenous Companies/ Contractors would emulate the aforementioned companies by protecting jobs, rights and benefits of their workforce including contract workers and service providers. The leadership of our great Union also commends the Honourable Minister of Labour, and Employment, (Senator) Dr. Chris Ngige, and Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva for their commitment and untiring efforts in saving jobs and making quick interventions on all matters of unfair labour practices by some IOC’s and ingenious Companies/Contractors during this period of Covid-19 pandemic. INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS ISSUES The wake of the Covid-19 outbreak brought about several issues of work closures, redundancies and unfair labour practices by some employers in the oil and gas industry. Unfortunately, some employers in the industry have been exploiting the situation of Covid-19 to embark on unbridled declarations of redundancies without any form of empathy or consideration for the productive efforts of these workers before Covid-19. As usual, our Union responded appropriately to these issues concerning the massive wave of loss of employment in the Nigeria oil and gas industry by taking them before various institutions and agencies of the Federal Government. These issues are not limited only to redundancies being declared but coupled as well with that other sharp practices being perpetrated by some companies in the industry to exploit and impoverish Nigerian workers in the midst of the current Covid-19 pandemic.

1. The first of such unscrupulous indigenous employer our Union is calling out is MR. ADLOR .A. UWAMU the owner of Valiant Energy Services West Africa and Vicadis Enterprises Nigeria Limited, Labour Contractor to Borr Drilling Nigeria Limited for running away with workers terminal entitlements. Workers in this matter, who are our members, had their employment unlawfully terminated on the 28^th of October, 2019 in very dubious and wicked manners while the employer absconded with their last month salary and final entitlements in violation of provisions of the extant labour law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

These workers worked on the Rig of Borr Drilling Nigeria Limited for TOTAL E&P and Shell Petroleum Development Company during this period.

1. ADOLOR .A. UWAMU’s stock in trade is setting up of multiple companies with wicked intentions to dupe his employees at the end of every contract, gain undue advantage in securing contracts and avoid statutory obligations to all levels of government in the country.

Our findings reveal, that Mr. Adolor further set up the following five companies, all with same management and housed in same official address at 43 Power Line Road, Kajola Magboro, Ogun State. These companies are: 1       Ilantrisant Limited 2       Caplina Limited 3       Ilandudno Limited 4       Pastunwali Limited 5       Mantrax Limited Since we reported this matter to Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, MR. ADOLOR .A. UWAMU has been avoiding all invitations and calls from the Ministry and other Government Agencies thereby frustrating every effort to make him account for his misdeeds. It should be noted here, that he may be hiding away from government institutions; he cannot hide from the Union and in few days, we shall commence some actions against him across the Country. The action of management to say the least is very provocative and an affront to global best practices, decency and integrity in the Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry. MR. ADOLOR .A. UWAMU and his various companies are bad examples of Nigerian businessmen and must be held accountable. We shall use all the powers at our disposal to get justice for our members.

1. Mobil Producing Unlimited – As you may be aware, Exxon Mobil has no single permanent Nigerian in its employment from the middle level to lower level cadre. The company does not deem it fit and proper for Nigerian Polytechnic and vocational schools graduates to be employed and has further directed its Contractors to terminate 257 of Contract workers in its operations while the Management keeps using the excuse of the lockdown not to engage with the Union. Those affected by the action even include elected Union executives.
2. XEPAMEADOW - The issues of refusal to negotiate Collective Bargaining Agreement with the workers and recognizing workers rights in the workplace have been lingering for the past 10 years with the Contractor colluding with Chevron Nigeria Limited to deny the workers these rights even after the Federal Ministry of Labour had ruled and advised on the matter appropriately.
3. ARCO vs General Electric vs FIRS - The continuing refusal of General Electric to refund back to ARCO the sum total of the over deducted withholding tax running into millions of Naira and Dollars deducted from ARCO account and remitted to FIRS is a matter of serious concern to the rank and file members of our Union and its attendance effect on the ARCO workers who are our members.

The terminal entitlements of our members have suffered unnecessary delays over the sudden emergence of new condition for the refund. We demand very strongly that General Electric should without further delay find ways and means to pay back this money. The patience of our members has been overstretched on this matter. The leadership of both NUPENG and PENGASSAN have resolved to take some decisive actions on this matter very soon if the refund is not made. We therefore call on the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment and the Nigeria Local Contents Monitoring and Development Board to use their good offices to passionately consider the plight of the poor workers that have toiled for several years for this money at the center of the matter and to rescue a genuine Nigerian employer from the antics of General Electric. F        IPPIS ISSUE AND DELAYED SALARIES The leadership of NUPENG and PENGASSAN are seriously concerned over the ways and manners Oil and Gas workers are being treated on the issue of IPPIS and the unwholesome suspension of payment of salaries and allowances of our members in those institutions that are affected. It is unfair and inhuman to owe workers salary for upward of three months in this hard period of Covid-19. We urgently call on the Federal Ministry of Petroleum to wade into this matter before it degenerates further than this. G        FEDERAL STIMULUS FUND FOR PETROLEUM HAULAGE SECTOR We wish to urgently draw the attention of the Federal Government to the harrowing experiences of the Owners of Petroleum Trucks in the Country. As you all know the only means of moving petroleum products across the country is by roads using the trucks. We can confidently tell you that this means of distribution is presently endangered and require urgent Federal Government stimulus intervention fund to prevent it from total collapse. A stitch in time saves nine as the saying goes. DEPLORABLE STATE OF OUR ROADS We are shocked at the lackadaisical attitude of States and Federal Governments to the issues of addressing the degenerating state of Nigeria roads before the coming of the current raining season despite all our warnings for them to make necessary construction, repairs and maintenance of all our roads, which are now in parlous state and becoming practically impassable. Most of the nation’s highways are becoming death traps for our members, most especially the highways in the Calabar-Itu-Uyo, Port-harcourt - Aba, Mokwa-Jebba – Kaduna, Port-Harcourt – Owerri, Warri-Benin-Auchi-Okene-Lokoja stretch of the country. EXTORTION BY SECURITY AGENTS The issues of bad roads is further compounded by the various security agencies who now set up multiple check points on these deplorable roads to further exploit and extort money from motorists. Petroleum Tanker Drivers are the worst hit by the exploitative tendencies of these unscrupulous security agencies. The brazen extortion of our members, especially during this Covid-19 pandemic was really disconcerting and unfortunate. As a Union, we cannot continue to fold our hands and watch our members, who toil day and night, in the rain, cold and sunshine to make our economy grow to keep suffering like this. In the light of the above, we are giving the Federal Government a two-week ultimatum to

• Commence total rehabilitation of these roads to save lives and properties as we can no longer tolerate the current situation of things.
• Immediately address the issue of multiple road blocks and extortions from all its security agents mainly, the Army, Police, Civil Defense Corps, if not addressed, we may be forced to embark on a serious industrial action to drive home our case. Enough is enough of these molestation, harassment, exploitation and extortion by these uniformed men. From Monday 6^th July all our Tanker Drivers are to commence putting green leaves in front of their trucks and from Monday 13^th July we shall commence two (2) hours morning prayers at every loading location and stop over spots for Petroleum Tanker Drivers.

INSECURITY IN THE LAND The Union is again very worried about rampant cases of banditry, kidnapping, killings of innocent Nigerians especially in the northern parts of the country. We are also perturbed about the spate of attacks by unknown herdsmen on farmers in the Southern part of the Country. It is so sad to see gory stories of deaths, kidnapping, robbery, rape and destruction on our daily media headlines. We call on the Federal Government to restructure the security architecture to make it more proactive in tackling these security issues that are gradually becoming endemic. We cannot afford to allow evil men take over the land and subject our people to gruesome deaths and perpetual fear. Be that as it may, I want to sincerely thank you all for your attention and God bless. Stay safe to stay alive!!!

PRESS STATEMENT: The National Leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), heartily felicitates and salutes the Nigerian working class people, most especially, those in the Oil and Gas industry on this auspicious occasion of 2020 May Day, a day specifically set aside to celebrate and commemorate workers' economic significance and social worth to humanity. Sadly and unfortunately, 2020 May Day came with unprecedented issues and challenges arising from the outbreak of Coronavirus pandemic. The unfortunate situation has regrettably deprived working class people the usual unique atmosphere and opportunity to engage in the traditional parades, speech-making, rallies, merriments, funfair and other activities that are associated with this special moment on yearly basis. Notwithstanding, NUPENG is using this opportunity to commend and appreciate all frontline working people who are on daily basis being exposed to risks of infections and deaths due to complications of Covid 19 as humanity engages the unseen enemy in the strange global war. We salute the indomitable and patriotic fighting spirit of Oil and Gas workers, medical workers, law enforcement agents, market men/women, farmers, journalists, Drivers and other essential services workers for their invaluable services to the nation. We pray that God will continue to protect and strengthen them in this struggle, as they discharge their very humane, legitimate and selfless essential services to humanity. It is very imperative for us to use this opportunity to implore the Federal Government and other levels of governments to deepen the spread and expand the quantity of the palliative measures/ materials being put in place to cushion the impacts and effects of the pandemic and its associated lockdown on economic activities and earning powers of individuals and corporate entities. Most importantly among the indigents and most vulnerable segments of the society so as to ease their pains, discomfort and hardship, so that there could be relative respite and peace in the society. The Union also empathizes with various employers of labour across board, particularly in the Oil and Gas industry and expresses willingness to cooperate and work together with them in this turbulent journey for the survival of humanity and the challenges of revamping our workplaces. We shall be together when the sun rises once again and our machines in various factories roar back to life. It is very important to note here, that, we received with deep sense of relief and hope, the report of the offer of the Department of Petroleum Resources to support the operations of Oil and Gas Companies during the perilous period so as to avoid stoppage of operations and unnecessary loss of jobs by workers. On this promising note, we strongly implore Oil and Gas Companies not to exploit the current disturbing situation to declare unnecessary redundancies or inflict precarious and unfair labor practices on the workers that are already emotionally and psychologically traumatized. The fear of how the workers are going to fare against the unknown enemy and the current economic hardships are already creating social upheavals to such an extent that any further loss of jobs in our industry would achieve nothing but complications and aggravation of an already bad situation. This is the time we should all come together to develop ways and means to save human race from the pandemic rather than being preoccupied with issues of pecuniary gains. We earnestly demand for mutual sacrifices and cooperation so that we can collectively defeat Covid 19 and the associated hunger in the land for a better tomorrow. On this note, we enjoin all Nigerian workers to remain steadfast, disciplined, patriotic and patiently observe the rules of social distancing, washing of hands with soap and water, maintain good personal and respiratory hygiene and avoid non essential movements etc, even after the mandatory lockdown is relaxed or finally over. Finally, the leadership of the NUPENG further enjoins all our members to persevere and exercise extreme restraints at all times, as tough times don’t last but tough people do. Let us remain united and avoid divisive tendencies, because our unity is our strength. Our Solidarity must remain constant for the Union makes us strong. Happy May Day to Nigeria Oil and Gas workers and the entire working class people all over the world. Signed: COMRADE (PRINCE) WILLIAMS AKPOREHA, NUPENG NATIONAL PRESIDENT, COMRADE AFOLABI OLAWALE, GENERAL SECRETARY OF NUPENG.

By Emmanuel Ajibulu Today, April 26, 2020 is unique in the community of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) as the General Secretary, Comrade Afolabi Olawale marks his birthday. It is simply appropriate to join his family, friends, protégés and well-wishers in thanking God for his exemplary life which is full of achievements, success and glory. His vision over the years has always been to bring about developmental change to the Union, and to the lives of members and staff through reaching out to different demographics in strategic and timely interventions. Thankfully since inception he has developed innovative methods and modern solutions in tackling contemporary issues for the greater good of the Union with amazing results. He undertakes his work most profoundly in the role of providing empowerment programs to young and old members and staff by helping them develop their career and skills through various life changing training, workshops, education, counselling and mentoring. Through mission and dedication, he continues to bring purpose, discipline and opportunities to numerous segments of the Union both administratively and operationally. Like diamonds, your worth is inestimable. You have tremendously and phenomenally impacted many lives. Your commitment to making a positive difference is unequaled. Your resilience, boldness, competence, foresight and forthrightness are deeply commended and worthy of emulation. Congratulations to a worthy pace setter. You are welcome to your year of uncommon testimony. Happy birthday to you sir.

PRESS STATEMENT: The National Leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) strongly condemns the killing of one of our members, Comrade Chibuisi Chikezie Okameme, aged 26, a petrol station worker in Abia State who was killed by a mobile Policeman whilst discharging his legitimate duties as Petrol station worker and in the frontline of the struggle against the COVID 19 pandemic on Sunday, 5th April 2020. The Union uses this platform to call on Police authority to immediately activate full investigation into this gruesome killing which took place at No 29/30, Greenmac Energy Limited in new Umuahia road, Aba, so that justice can be accordingly served. This investigation must be properly carried out and other appropriate steps taken to serve as deterrent to other trigger happy officers and guide them to know that minimum force is expected from them at a time like this among civilian and unarmed population. We are however seriously disturbed by the unfortunate silence of Abia State government over the gruesome murder of a worker in the frontline of this struggle and urgently call on the Federal government to step into this matter before it degenerate further. Our Union takes lives of our members very serious and precious and we shall do all we can to get justice. The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Ene Okon is enjoined by the Union to do the needful in no time so that the battered image of the Police in this instance can be redeemed. NUPENG also uses this medium to appeal to our members in Abia State and across the country who are on the frontline during this national emergency not to be discouraged by this heartrending incident which occurred on Sunday along popular New Umuahia road in Obingwa Local Government Area. The Union commiserates with the family members of the deceased and the management and staff of Greenmac Energy Limited, we pray that God will grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable, painful and untimely death of Chibuisi. Our solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us strong Signed: National President of NUPENG, Comrade (Prince) Williams Eniredonana Akporeha, General Secretary of NUPENG, Comrade Afolabi Olawale.

Press Release: The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has commended Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) for their sacrifice ferrying petroleum products across the nook and cranny of the Country, a release by the corporation’s Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Dr. Kennie Obateru, has said. The release stated that the tanker drivers’ selfless service during the lockdown had ensured smooth distribution of petroleum products during the restriction period. It quoted the Managing Director of the NNPC Retail Ltd., Sir Billy Okoye, as saying that NNPC Retail Ltd’s filling stations, numbering more than 600 across the country, are to remain operational throughout the period of the lockdown to meet the energy needs of Nigerians. Sir Okoye disclosed that all NNPC Retail outlets are wet with sufficient petroleum products, ready to serve the public. He explained that the company’s retail outlets are stocked with sufficient petroleum products, with PPMC depots holding its products in various states of the federation., adding that NNPC Retail Ltd’s products are daily being trucked to stations strategically located across Nigeria, urging consumers not to engage in panic buying. “Our major responsibility is to ensure that there is fuel supply in our stations. We have enough products at all our storage tanks and at our depots; we also have a large quantity of products in transit to our stations. Nigerians don’t need to panic” Sir. Okoye reassured. The NNPC Retail Ltd’s helmsman, on behalf of NNPC Management, thanked the various state governors for allowing petroleum tankers to crisscross their states despite the movement restriction order and commended the security agencies, Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and all other service providers in the Downstream value chain for their support. He commended Nigerians for their understanding during this period, assuring that the NNPC Retail stations would remain open to avoid any shock in the supply and distribution of petroleum products across the Country. He thanked the Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Mallam Mele Kyari, for the strategic leadership he has provided during this challenging times, adding that stakeholders in the Downstream Sector are ready to collaborate to ensure Nigeria is wet with petroleum products at all times. Dr. Kennie Obateru Group General Manager Group Public Affairs Division Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation NNPC Towers, Abuja. 3rd April, 2020.