TOTALENERGIES EP NIGERIA LIMITED MANAGEMENT VISITS NUPENG NATIONAL SECRETARIAT, REINFORCES STRONG PARTNERSHIP

Lagos, Nigeria – February 4, 2026

The National Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) was honoured to host a high-level courtesy visit from the management of TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited (TEPNG) today.

The distinguished TEPNG delegation was led by Mrs. Kenechi Esomeju, Executive General Manager, People & Talent Management. They were warmly received at the NUPENG Tower by the union’s national leadership, including Comrade Williams Akporeha, NUPENG President; Comrade Afolabi Olawale, General Secretary; Otunba Salimon Oladiti, National Trustee; and other senior officers of the union.

In her remarks, Mrs. Kenechi Esomeju expressed profound appreciation to the NUPENG National Leadership for their exemplary mentorship of the TotalEnergies Branch of NUPENG executives. She commended the Branch’s exemplary conduct and constructive approach to engagement with the company’s management, describing it as a model for positive industrial relations.

In his welcome address, Comrade Williams Akporeha stated that the union was deeply honoured by the visit. He reaffirmed the existing cordial and productive working relationship between NUPENG and TEPNG management. The President expressed confidence that this partnership would grow even stronger, noting the pivotal role of Mrs. Esomeju, whom he praised for her consistent maternal dedication and support towards NUPENG members within the company.

Echoing the sentiment, Comrade Afolabi Olawale, General Secretary, appreciated the entire TEPNG management and commended the company’s effective structures for worker engagement, which he said have fostered mutual understanding and progress over the years.

Comrade Lucky Ogure, Chairman of the TEPNG Branch of NUPENG, accompanied by other Branch excos, also lauded the management’s commitment and expressed hope for the sustainability of this positive and collaborative relationship.

The visit underscores the shared commitment of NUPENG and TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited to maintaining industrial harmony, fostering a respectful work environment, and strengthening the strategic partnership for the benefit of all stakeholders in the oil and gas sector.

Comrade Suleiman M. Pema AGS (Research & Public Affairs) NUPENG National Secretariat

NUPENG AND TOTALENERGIES EP NIGERIA LTD COMMENCE 2026 COLLECTIVE BARGAINING NEGOTIATIONS

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

NEW PTD BRANCH LEADERSHIP UPDATE

We are proud to announce that Comrade Mathias Otasukporo Ote has been unanimously elected as the new National Chairman of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) Branch of NUPENG.

The appointment took place during the PTD Branch Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday, 21st January, 2026.

Comrade Ote steps into this vital role following the passing of the former Chairman of the Branch, Comrade Augustine Egbon, in November 2025. The entire Council stands united in support of his leadership.

Join us in congratulating Comrade Mathias Otasukporo Ote!
We look forward to a progressive and productive tenure under his guidance.

Our Solidarity remains Constant for the Union makes us Strong!!

ELECTION GUIDELINES FOR PETROLEUM TANKER DRIVERS BRANCH OF NUPENG ZONAL ELECTIONS 2026

GUIDELINES FOR 2026 NUPENG ZONAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS

IMB NUPENG LAGOS ZONE HOLDS SUCCESSFUL DELEGATES CONFERENCE, ELECTS NEW LEADERSHIP

Lagos, Nigeria – January 15, 2026.

The Lagos Zonal Council of the Independent Marketers Branch (IMB) of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has successfully concluded its 6th Delegates Conference and election of new executives. Held today at the NUPENG Lagos Zonal Council Secretariat, the conference was convened in strict compliance with the IMB Bye-law and the NUPENG Constitution, stressing the union's commitment to democratic principles and internal democracy.

The event was graced by the presence of Comrade Olayemi Oluleye, National Chairman of the IMB, alongside key executives of the NUPENG Lagos Zonal Council who served as observers. The electoral process, praised for its transparency and orderliness, was presided over by Comrade Idahoise Osunbor, Senior Assistant General Secretary (Admin Head, Lagos Zone), who acted as the Returning Officer.

Following a seamless process of accreditation and voting, sixteen (16) dedicated members were elected to steer the affairs of the IMB Lagos Zone for the new term of four years.

They were subsequently sworn into office.
The newly elected Executives of the NUPENG IMB Lagos Zonal Council is as follows:
1. Chairman: Comrade Taofeek Olayiwola Adisa
2. Deputy Chairman: Comrade Adetunji Azeez Adeniyi
3. Deputy Chairman: Comrade Ayedun Olu Samuel
4. Vice Chairman: Comrade Ajayi Babatunde Michael
5. Zonal Secretary: Comrade Tajudeen Balogun
6. Zonal Assistant Secretary: Comrade Ajayi Ajibola Oyetunde
7. Treasurer: Comrade Adegunloye Adeshina I.
8. Trustee: Comrade Suleiman Olawale A.
9. Auditor: Comrade Sulaiman A. Kamal Dean (Ilorin Unit)
10. Auditor: Comrade Abiola Akinkunle (Ejigbo Unit)
11. Financial Secretary: Comrade Adepoju Abdulkareem A.
12. Public Relations Officer: Comrade Ogundare Funmilayo Toyin
13. Industrial Relations Officer: Comrade Sodipo Olasunkanmi Seunara
14. Welfare Officer (Male): Comrade Oyeyinka Oyetunji Joseph
15. Welfare Officer (Female): Comrade Alimeke Scholar Olayemi
16. Chief Whip: Comrade Adesokan Sikiru Adetona

The Union extends its congratulations to the new executives and gratitude to the outgone leadership, particularly Comrade Olayemi Samuel Abayomi, who completed two tenures of service. NUPENG is confident that this new team will build on past achievements to advance the welfare of its members and the goals of the Union in the Lagos Zone.

Comrade Suleiman M. Pema, AGS (Research and Public Affairs) for NUPENG Media Team

REQUEST FOR SUBMISSION OF UPDATED COMPUTER PRINT-OUT LIST OF CHECK-OFF DUES PAYING MEMBERS OF ALL BRANCHES OF NUPENG FOR 2026 NUPENG DELEGATES CONFERENCES

NOTIFICATION OF NUPENG 6TH QUADRENNIAL NATIONAL DELEGATES CONFERENCE

NUPENG BIDS FAREWELL TO A TITAN, COMRADE AUGUSTINE EGBON (JP): CELEBRATION, TEARS, TRIBUTES, AND TANKERS PARKED AS UNION PAYS LAST RESPECTS TO A FEARLESS LEADER

BENIN CITY, Edo State – January 10, 2026: The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) observed a day of solemn tribute and reflection as it laid to rest its National Chairman of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) Branch, the late Comrade Augustine Osamwonyi Egbon (JP).

In an unprecedented display of respect, the operational heartbeat of the nation’s fuel distribution network paused. Petroleum tanker drivers across the country voluntarily parked their vehicles to attend the funeral service, transforming the usual bustle of highways into a silent homage.

Thousands of union members gathered at the E.B.S field in Ikpoba Hill, their ranks a sea of union colours, to honour a leader described as the embodiment of solidarity, service, and sacrifice. The ceremony was attended by the full spectrum of NUPENG leadership, including Comrade Williams Akporeha, National President; Comrade Afolabi Olawale, General Secretary; Otunba Salimon Akanni Oladiti, National Trustee; and Comrade Malut Abubakar, the Acting PTD National Chairman, alongside Zonal Chairmen, Branch Executives, and members from veterans to new drivers.

In his address, Comrade Williams Akporeha commiserated with the Egbon family, the PTD Branch, and the people of Edo State. To immortalise the late chairman’s legacy, he announced the renaming of the Warri PTD Zonal Secretariat to the Comrade Augustine Egbon PTD Zonal Secretariat, Warri.

Comrade Malut Abubakar, in his tribute, echoed the sentiment of a monumental loss, describing Comrade Egbon as a great leader whose contributions to national development were immense.

The late chairman’s four-decade journey within the union traced the path of the very drivers he led. Rising from the driver’s seat, he ascended through the ranks—serving as Unit Chairman, Zonal Financial Secretary, Branch Vice Chairman, Warri Zone Chairman—before his election as National Chairman in October 2023. He was widely recognized as a builder and a tireless advocate, notably overseeing the construction of the PTD Zonal Secretariat in Warri, a permanent symbol of his vision for a unified and empowered membership.

His legacy was celebrated as one that fortified the union and amplified the voice of workers in the informal sector. Representatives from sister organisations, including the NARTO, IPMAN, SUTAKEP, LPGAR, PSW, and IMB, were present in solidarity.

As Comrade Augustine Egbon was laid to rest, the union reaffirmed that his life’s work continues in the strengthened resolve of its members. The tankers will return to the roads, but the memory of his leadership will endure for every mile travelled.

United in Grief. Fortified by Legacy.

Comrade Suleiman M. Pema, AGS (Research & Public Affairs) for NUPENG Media.

PETROLEUM TANKER DRIVERS (PTD) BRANCH EXECUTIVE COUNCIL (BEC) MEETING - OWERRI, IMO STATE

11th December, 2025

By Comrade Suleiman M. Pema, AGS (Research and Public Affairs)

The Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) Branch of NUPENG held its final Branch Executive Council (BEC) meeting for 2025 on December 11th in Owerri, Imo State. This followed a Branch Working Committee meeting on 10th December 2025.

The meetings began with a solemn tribute to the late PTD National Chairman, Comrade Augustine Egbon, who passed away on November 16th, 2025.

The session was presided over by the Acting PTD National Chairman, Comrade Malut Abubakar, and attended by the NUPENG President, Comrade Williams Akporeha, the General Secretary Afolabi Olawale, other national officers, and all PTD leaders.

In their remarks, Comrades Malut Abubakar and Williams Akporeha praised the late Chairman’s exemplary leadership and thanked the membership for their steadfast support.

Key resolutions from the council meeting include:
• Satisfaction with the reduction in road crashes and a commitment to continue safety sensitization programs.
• A review of the poor state of roads across various zones.
• Commendation for the beneficial health insurance scheme for tanker drivers on the wheel.
• Reaffirmation of the ban on night driving, with a directive for strict adherence.
• A unanimous pledge of loyalty to leadership and unity within the union for the benefit of the industry and the nation.
Finally, as a mark of respect, the council resolved to suspend all operations on January 10th, 2026, to mobilize members for the burial of the late Comrade Augustine Egbon in Benin, Edo State.

NUPENG CONVENES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL (NEC) MEETING IN LAGOS

Lagos, Nigeria – December 8, 2025.

By Comrade Suleiman M. Pema - Assistant General Secretary (Research & Public Affairs)

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) held its third National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the year in Lagos on Monday.

The session brought together the Union's leadership to assess progress in 2025 and formulate strategies for the upcoming year's activities.

Comrade (Prince) Williams Akporeha, National President of NUPENG, presided over the meeting. In his opening address, he thanked the NEC and the entire membership for their steadfast support throughout his tenure. He highlighted that the Union's accomplishments were a direct result of collaborative efforts between the Council, members, and secretariat staff. The President also commended the General Secretary, Comrade Afolabi Olawale, for his dedicated service.

In his remarks, General Secretary Comrade Afolabi Olawale acknowledged the support of the President and NEC members. He stressed the meeting's significance in planning pivotal 2026 events, including Zonal Council elections, a Special Delegates Conference, and a National Delegates Conference, all scheduled for the first quarter of the year 2026.

Other senior leaders in attendance included Comrade Salimon Akanni Oladiti (National Trustee), Comrade Prince Moses (Deputy President), Comrade Solomon Kilanko (Deputy President), Comrade Danladi Yahaya (National Financial Secretary), Comrade Thompson Ogbodo (National Auditor), and other distingushed NEC members.

The meeting concluded with the Council reaffirming its commitment to prioritizing members' welfare and strengthening NUPENG's unity in 2026.

 

RE: NLC's BREAKING NEWS ON ARREST OF RIVERS STATE CHAIRPERSON, ALEX AGWANWOR

The leadership and members of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) have read the release by the Acting General Secretary of the Congress dated 4/12/2025 over the arrest of Comrade Alex Agwanwor. We seek to make our position very clear and unambiguous over the matter.

First of all, the membership of the Nigeria Labour Congress is strictly by affiliation made up of registered Industrial Unions and any individual holding any position in the Congress is representing the affiliated industrial Union to which he/she belongs.

Notwithstanding the above, we want to categorically state here that the arrest of Comrade Alex Agwanwor was pursuant to the signed publication of criminal allegation Comrade Alex Agwanwor and his cohorts made to the effect that the leadership of NUPENG planned to kill him (Alex AGWANWOR) and some named persons and cause bloodshed. The said publication can be found on the second to the last paragraph of annexture 1 dated 25th July 2025.

It was on the basis of this publication touching on heinous criminal allegation, which was widely circulated on social media including WhatsApp platform that Comrade Alex Agwanwor personally created that the leadership of NUPENG lodged complaint to the Police. The Police invited him and others on the 7/08/2025 and 24/ 09/ 2025 (see attached) annexture 2 and 3. He refused and failed to honour several police invitations. He and his cohorts caused their Solicitor to write the police seeking to honour police invitation at a specific future date. The date passed without their honouring police invitation. He has been evading arrest ever since then. The issue is therefore clearly not a union dispute. It is strictly a criminal matter which requires investigation. In this era of assassinations, kidnappings and high level of insecurity and violence in the country, we do not think we should allow such weighty allegations to go unaddressed.

The Congress should not encourage criminalities because the person involved happens to be an officer of the Congress. It is precisely because of the status of Comrade Alex Agwanwor that Congress ought to insist he provides proof that NUPENG leadership has planned to kill him and some other named persons and cause bloodshed.

We also wish to put it on record and strongly advise that Congress should not unwittingly cause deep and intractable division within the trade union movement. NUPENG will not expect protection of Congress if it is proven that indeed the leadership has any proven plan to kill any person and cause bloodshed. In the same way, Comrade Alex Agwanwor should be advised by Congress and his sympathizers to go and defend his innocence.

It will be setting a very bad precedent that Congress will use its name to protect or defend or condone criminalities regardless of who may be involved. Unionism is about defending democratic rights, not about defending criminalities. Congress should not let its name to be associated with defending or protecting or condoning criminal allegations, regardless of the status of the person involved. NUPENG demands an immediate retraction of its publication titled "Breaking News".

Thank you all.

Our Solidarity remains constant, for the Union makes us strong! FOR: NIGERIA UNION OF PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS WORKERS

COMRADE (PRINCE) WILLIAMS AKPOREHA  -

NUPENG Executive President

COMRADE AFOLABI OLAWALE - General Secretary

INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ELIMINATION OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

By

Comrade Grace Oghenedoro, Organising Secretary (Legal/Gender)

THEME: UNITE TO END DIGITAL VIOLENCE AGAINST ALL WOMEN AND GIRLS

 “No Excuse - Every Woman Deserves Safety, Dignity, Respect and to live without fear.”

On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, NUPENG stands in solidarity with every woman and girl who has been threatened, harassed, silenced, or harmed. This year’s call to “Unite to End Digital Violence” is one we take to heart.

From November 25th to December 10th, 2025, the global community comes together. This is more than a routine observance; it is an urgent response to a sobering reality. The truth is violence against women remains one of the most widespread and devastating human rights abuses in our world.

As a Union that represents workers in the Upstream, Midstream and Downstream sectors of the Oil and Gas Industry, we do not speak about this issue from a distance but as people who have listened to the quiet sobs behind doors, the whispered confessions from sisters and the tremble in the voices of women who do not know where to turn. We see the pain behind the smiles, the fear hidden in offices, rigs, flow stations, terminals, refineries, filling stations, and even online spaces. Violence against women is not “private” but a violation of dignity, safety, and workers’ rights.

Violence against women is not a statistic. It is a wound that many of us carry silently — in our workplaces, in our homes, in our communities, and now, increasingly, online. The world may talk about “one in three women,” but within our spaces, those numbers have names, faces, colleagues, and friends. And far too often, they have scars.

This day is not about lamentation alone. It is about action, strength and solidarity.

In our industry today, women still face harassment disguised as “jokes,” intimidation masked as “authority,” and exploitation passed off as “normal.” In their homes, too many of our sisters are enduring fear instead of love. And in digital spaces, young women navigate insults, threats, stalking, and the cruel misuse of technology that aims to shame and silence them. Violence has simply evolved and so must our resistance.

As a responsible and responsive Union, we say ENOUGH! We cannot fold our arms and wait. We must become a shield. We must become a voice. We must become a place where women feel safe to speak, safe to report and safe to breathe.

Today, we are calling on all of us — leaders, members, men, women, young workers, and elders to stand together and say: Enough! Enough of excusing abusive behaviours. Enough of blaming survivors. Enough of protecting perpetrators because of “position,” “power,” or “reputation.” Enough of silence because it gives violence room to grow.

Every woman deserves safety, dignity, and respect. She deserves a place where her dreams are nurtured, not threatened; where her talent can shine without fear and where her humanity is valued—from the depot to the headquarters, the field, the stations, or the union offices.

Let this day remind us that change does not only come from laws or policies. It comes from each of us choosing courage over silence, compassion over judgement, and justice over convenience.

On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, let us recommit, not in empty words, but in collective action to building a place and country where every woman can stand tall, unafraid, and unapologetically whole.

We commit to using our voice, our structures, and our solidarity to build a safer industry and a safer society for all women.

A CALL TO SISTERS, BROTHERS, AND ALL MEMBERS

To every woman reading this: You have the right to live and work without fear, without violence, and without humiliation. To every man: You have a role as an ally, protector of dignity, and builder of workplaces and societies where respect is the norm, not the exception. And to our union leadership and members: Let us deepen our commitment not only to fair wages or decent work, but to dignity, safety, and justice.

On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, let us raise our voices, stand in solidarity, and reaffirm our commitment. Violence against one woman is violence against the entire NUPENG family.

Together, we can end it.

Our Solidarity Remains Constant for the Union makes us Strong!

#NoExcuse #NUPENGCares #16DaysOfActivism #OilAndGasWorkersStandTogether #NUPENGAgainstGBV #DignityForAll #SolidarityInAction

NUPENG MOURNS THE PASSING OF COMRADE AUGUSTINE EGBON (JP), NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, PTD BRANCH OF NUPENG

PRESS RELEASE - NUPENG GRIEVES WITH NIGER STATE OVER TANKER EXPLOSION, ISSUES URGENT CALL FOR ROAD REHABILITATION MEASURES

22nd October 2025

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) is profoundly saddened by the tragic tanker explosion that occurred along the Bida-Agaie road on Tuesday, 21st October 2025.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to His Excellency, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, and the people of Essan and Badeggi communities in Katcha Local Government Area, Niger State. The significant loss of life, injuries sustained, and damage to property in this incident have left our Union leadership and membership in a state of collective mourning. We offer our full solidarity to the affected families and communities and pray for the souls of the departed and the swift healing of the injured.

In line with our role as a responsible organization, NUPENG reaffirms its dedication to supporting the Niger State Government and all stakeholders in implementing effective preventive measures. We emphasize that this disaster highlights the critical necessity for immediate and sustained action to address the deteriorating state of key roadways across the nation.

It is disheartening that such fatal events continue to occur, despite our ongoing collaborative efforts with safety agencies to educate the public on the dangers of interfering with accident scenes involving flammable substances.

NUPENG remains steadfast in its pursuit of a safer transportation ecosystem and calls upon all Nigerians to prioritize safety and maintain vigilance. A concerted effort is essential to eradicate these preventable tragedies.

Our Solidarity remains constant, for the Union makes us strong! FOR: NIGERIA UNION OF PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS WORKERS

COMRADE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA National President

COMRADEAFOLABI OLAWALE General Secretary

MEMORANDUM PRESENTED TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES COMMITTEE ON PETROLEUM RESOURCES (DOWNSTREAM) AT THE ANNUAL DOWNSTREAM PETROLEUM WEEK CONFERENCE BY NUPENG GENERAL SECRETARY, COMRADE AFOLABI OLAWALE

Venue:  National Assembly Complex, Abuja

Date:     14th October, 2025

1.0 INTRODUCTION: THE ROLE AND LEGACY OF TRADE UNIONS

1.1 Definition and Purpose of a Trade Union

A trade union (or labour union) is an organized association of workers established to safeguard and advance their shared interests. Its core objectives include, protection of job interests, improving conditions of work (wages, benefits, workplace Safety) and overall working conditions, achieved through collective bargaining and social dialogue, conflict mediation, management and resolutions amongst members, advancement of socio-economic interests of the working masses, as legally allowed.

Workers primarily form and join trade unions to amplify their collective voices and strength, recognizing that an individual employee holds limited negotiating power against the employers.

Key motivations include:

• Advancement and protection of Job Interests

• Collective Bargaining and Social Dialogue with other Social Partners

• Job Security

• Improved Working Conditions

• Conflicts mediation, management and resolution amongst members

• Socio/Economic and Political Advocacy/Advancement.

• Solidarity and Mutual Support

1.2 Historical and Legal Foundations of Trade Unions in Nigeria

The formal Trade Union Movement in Nigeria traces its origins to 1912, with the formation of the Nigeria Civil Service Union. This pioneering effort laid the foundation for unionization across other sectors.

By 1975, during the military regime of General Murtala Mohammed, the number of trade unions in the country had proliferated to over 800, many of which were loosely structured and lacked cohesion.

In response, the government in 1976 set up a Commission of Inquiry to look into the proliferations. An administrator was appointed to oversee the inquiry and recommend a framework for more effective union administration. This intervention was deemed necessary due to increasing ideological divisions among the unions, which were undermining labour-management relations.

Towards the end of 1977, the restructuring process culminated in the consolidation of these numerous unions into 42 industrial unions, organized along sectoral lines and this explains why Trade Unions in Nigeria are called Industrial Unions. Among these newly formed bodies was the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), which emerged as a key representative of workers in the petroleum and natural gas industry.

In Nigeria, the right to unionize is firmly anchored in law:

• Section 40 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of association.

• ILO Conventions No. 87 and 98, which Nigeria has ratified, guarantee the rights to freedom of association, organize, and collectively bargain.

• The Trade Unions Act (Cap T14, LFN 2004) provides the regulatory framework, with its Third Schedule specifically listing the registered industrial trade unions and their jurisdictional scope.

1.3 Major Achievements of Trade Unions

Many workplace standards we take for granted today were won through union advocacy. Major achievements include: The Weekend, The 8-Hour Day, End of Child Labour, Workplace Safety Laws, Minimum Wage Laws, Employer-Provided Benefits, and Protection from Discrimination. In summary, trade unions transformed the modern workplace from a system of often-exploitative industrial capitalism to one with established worker rights, safety standards, and a more equitable distribution of economic gains.

In this Country, no one should forget or pretend to forget the historical and legendary struggles of NUPENG and PENGASSAN against the military for the restoration of our Democracy. It is this same democracy that brought all of us together under same roof here

2.0 NUPENG: MANDATE AND STRUCTURE IN THE OIL AND GAS SECTOR

2.1 Legal Jurisdiction and History

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) was officially established on November 2, 1977, and registered as a Trade Union on August 15, 1978.

Despite challenges like casualization and outsourcing by International Oil Companies (IOCs), NUPENG remains committed to organizing workers both in formal and informal sectors. The Union has over 150 Branches and Current membership stands at approximately 4,800 for the FORMAL Sector, with over 30,000 members in the Informal Sector.

To this paper, our focus will be on the Downstream Sector of the Nigeria oil and gas Industry and this is predominantly dominated by organized informal Branches of NUPENG, which encompass a vast number of employers and employees.

The jurisdictional scope of trade unions in Nigeria is defined by statutory law, specifically in Part B of the Third Schedule to the Trade Unions Act. This Schedule confers upon NUPENG jurisdiction over junior and mid-level workers engaged in the entire Oil and Gas Industry, including exploration, production, pipelines, refining distribution, and marketing of petroleum and natural gas, and related activities such as Petroleum Tanker Drivers, Petrol Filling Stations

2.2 Core Objectives and Informal Sector Branches

The Constitution of NUPENG states its core objectives, which include:

• Organizing and unionizing all oil and gas workers,

• Ensuring protection of job interests and overall welfare of members

• Regulating employer-employee relations,

• Regulating relationship among members

• Negotiating equitable conditions of service, and

• Advancing member education and training.

• Advancing Socio/Economic and Political Interests of members.

NUPENG represents junior and mid-level workers across the sector and has a significant structure for organizing the formal and informal sector.

To this paper, we are focusing on the informal branches of NUPENG which includes branches such as:

• Petroleum Station Workers (PSW) Branch of NUPENG- (Employees of IMB)

• Independent Marketers Branch (IMB) of NUPENG- (Employees of IPMAN)

• Engine Lubricant Dealers (ELD) Branch of NUPENG

• Surface Tank Kerosene Peddlers (SUTAKEP) Branch of NUPENG

• Liquified Petroleum Gas Retailers (LPGAR) Branch of NUPENG

• Jetty and Depot Oil And Gas Workers (JEDOGW) Branch of NUPENG

• The Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) Branch of NUPENG – (Employees of NARTO)

3.0: THE DANGOTE REFINERY SITUATION:  THE ANTI-UNION STANCE

3.1 Successful Partnership and Emerging Concerns

The leadership and members of the Nigeria Union and Natural Gas Workers commend the courage, initiative and patriotism of Alh Aliko Dangote in setting up the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Company in Nigeria.

Indeed, NUPENG was one of the first Stakeholders to congratulate him and paid Solidarity visit to the Refinery and Petrochemical Company.

Beyond the letter writing and courtesy visit, we also ensured total support for the seamless and very successful commencement of the operations of the production with prompt evacuation of products to create room for continuous production.

It is on record, and it is worthy to note here, that, since the launch of the operations of the refinery last year, the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) Branch of NUPENG has been instrumental in the successful nationwide distribution of its petroleum products.

Unfortunately, on the 14^th of June 2025, it was announced that Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical was bringing in large numbers of CNG Truck for free delivery of Petroleum Products to Filling Stations and other Industrial Consumers. And that no Union will be allowed to unionise the new Truck Drivers to be employed

The announcement raises critical questions

• What is the fate of those Truck Drivers currently servicing the Refinery and have been servicing Nigeria for decades?

• Is it lawful for the employer to resist unionization of workers?

• What happens to NUPENG and its members?

• What happens to the existing investment in the haulage business of petroleum products?

• Even, if transiting to cleaner energy, what happens to fairness, equity and inclusive growth for all Nigerians.

4.0 LEGAL ANALYSIS: NEPZA ACT VS. CONSTITUTIONAL AND ILO RIGHTS

It is important to address assertions made by the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) regarding Section 18(5) of the NEPZA Act, which states:

"There shall be no strikes or lockouts for a period of ten years following the commencement of operations within a zone and any trade dispute arising within a Zone shall be resolved by the Authority".

However, the legal position is more nuanced than this.

The NEPZA Act’s provisions are subordinate to the fundamental conventions of the International Labour Organization (ILO)—specifically Conventions 87 and 98, which guarantee the right to freedom of association and collective bargaining. These conventions, ratified by Nigeria, are recognized as constitutional rights under Section 254C(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The ILO Committee of Experts has consistently affirmed that recognition strikes are lawful. Therefore, any statutory provision that attempts to prohibit such rights is inconsistent with constitutional guarantees.

Furthermore, Section 4(e) of the NEPZA Act, which deals with the resolution of trade disputes, does not prohibit the existence of trade unions. Its scope is limited to resolving employment-related issues affecting individual employees and does not extend to collective labour disputes, which are governed by the Trade Disputes Act (TDA).

5.0. ABROGATE DRACONIAN LAWS FROM NIGERIA’S STATUTE BOOKS:

PETROLEUM PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTION (ANTI-SABOTAGE) ACT, CAP P.12, LAWS OF THE FEDERATION OF NIGERIA, 2004

One singular draconian law characterizes the deprivation of fundamental right of oil workers in particular. This is the Petroleum Production and Distribution (Anti-Sabotage) Act, CAP P.12, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

This law criminalizes what it terms ‘sabotage’. Any form of strike action by workers can easily pass for ‘sabotage’ considering the definition of the scope of the meanings of ‘sabotage’ under the Act. This is because, under the Act, any form of interruption in the process of production or distribution of petroleum products qualifies for ‘sabotage’, which is punishable, on conviction, by death sentence or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 21 years.

Under section 1 sub (1) of the Act, any person who wilfully does any of the following things or any person who aids, incites, counsels or procures any other person, to do any of the following things, whether or not that other person does any of the things, shall be guilty of the offence of ‘sabotage”. The ‘things’ or acts spelt out are:

• doing anything with intent to obstruct or prevent the production or distribution of petroleum products in any part of Nigeria; or

 

• doing anything with intent to obstruct or prevent the procurement of petroleum products for distribution in any part of Nigeria; or

 

• doing anything in respect of any vehicle or any public highway with intent to obstruct or prevent the use of that vehicle or that public highway for the distribution of petroleum products,

 

Though this legislation has not been fully applied, nothing stops the State from fully applying it against striking oil workers, if and when the State feels strong enough to do so, for as long as it remains in the statute books. The mere existence of the Act is a threat to the exercise of fundamental right of peaceful action guaranteed under the constitution.

The National Assembly should not retain laws that threaten the exercise of fundamental rights.

6.0. INITIATE LEGISLATION TO GUARANTEE A DECENT WORK AGENDA THAT WOULD MAKE EMPLOYERS, PRIVATE EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES, AND ALL OTHER OPERATORS & CONTRACTORS IN THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY TO BE BOUND BY THE ILO’S FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS AT WORK

Articles 11 & 12 of C181 - Private Employment Agencies Convention, 1997 (No. 181) make this obligation very clear, as follows:

A Member shall, in accordance with national law and practice, take the necessary measures to ensure adequate protection for the workers employed by private employment agencies as described in Article 1, paragraph 1(b) above, in relation to:

 

(a) freedom of association;

(b) collective bargaining;

(c) minimum wages;

(d) working time and other working conditions;

(e) statutory social security benefits;

(f) access to training;

(g) occupational safety and health;

(h) compensation in case of occupational accidents or diseases;

(i) compensation in case of insolvency and protection of workers claims;

(j) maternity protection and benefits, and parental protection and benefits.

(See Article 11 of C181).

Similar provisions are made in Labour Clauses (Public Contracts) Convention, 1949 (No. 94). The legal regime in Nigeria should be such that compliance with ILO Conventions on fundamental rights at work by employers, public and private, is a fundamental condition precedent to allowing companies to operate in the oil and gas sector.

7.0 CONCLUSION AND DEMANDS

In this struggle, NUPENG stands not just for its members, but for every Nigerian whose livelihood depends on a fair and competitive energy economy. NUPENG’s demands are not radical; they are reasonable, responsible, and rooted in the pursuit of fairness and laws of the land.

Therefore, we respectfully submit the following demands to this Honourable Committee:

1. Union Recognition: We call for the immediate recognition of NUPENG and PENGASSAN as the only statutorily recognized union for all junior and senior staff workers to join in the entire oil and gas industry. Union recognition by the employer should be a condition precedent to allowing any company to continue to operate. This is the position of both domestic and international instruments, particularly ILO standards, which are the minimum standards on a global scale. The case of Nigeria should not an exception. By extension, the case of Dangote Refinery should not be an exception. Where all other IOCs (International Oil Companies) accommodate trade unions, the Dangote Refinery should not above the law. Recognizing the union is the first step toward building a sustainable, inclusive downstream petroleum sector where workers are respected and businesses can thrive.

This demand is in line with 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) (the Constitution), guarantees in section 40 that:

“Every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests.”

The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) has put the position of the law pungently in Nestoil PLC v. National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) (2012) 29 NLLR (Pt. 82) 90 at 155, paragraphs C-F, as follows: “As far as our law is concerned, junior staff are deemed to be members of a union until they individually and in writing opt not to be; while senior staff are deemed not to be members until they individually and in writing opt to be. This means that if in truth the defendant is the proper union to unionize junior staff of the defendant, the question of them having to agree and express their interest before they can join the defendant’s union will not arise. All that will be required of them is that if they do not want to be members, they can opt out”.

In the same authority of Nestoil PLC v. NUPENG (supra) at 155, paragraph G, it was held that “… the law is that registration is deemed, recognition automatic and deduction of check-off dues compulsory, being based on mere eligibility to be a member of the union in question”

In Executive Chairman & Management of Benue State Universal Basic Education Board v. Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational & Associated Institutions [2021] LPELR-55724(CA), the Court of Appeal, per Affen, JCA, held that “…the law assumes a paternalism towards junior staff by making eligibility the yardstick for trade union membership but donates to him the right to opt out in writing if he finds that his interest is not being served”.

The Court has judicially interpreted Section 5(3) of the Labour Act and Section 17 of the Trade Unions Act to determine the obligation of the employer and the entitlement of the trade union statutorily authorized to unionize a set of workers in an industrial unionism regime. In EZE & Ors v. UDEH & Ors (2017) LPELR-42716(CA), the Court of Appeal held that by virtue of Section 5(3) of the Labour Act and Section 17 of the Trade Unions Act, an employer shall automatically deduct check-off dues or contributions from the wages of members of a trade union recognized and registered under the Trade Unions Act and remit same to the union.

In paragraph 64 of the Judgment in BETHEL EZEGO & 4 ORS.  V. NUFBTE & BELOXXI (SUIT NO: NICN/LA/221/2017 JUDGMENT DELIVERED ON 16/07/2018 BY HIS LORDSHIP, HON. JUSTICE B.B. KANYIP, PhD, the Court held that “earlier, [in] CAC v. AUPCTRE [2004] 1 NLLR (Pt. 1) 1 had considered and held as constitutional the automatic deduction of check-off dues, holding in the process that although recognition of trade unions is mandatory and deduction of check-off dues automatic, each worker has the freedom and liberty to opt out of trade unionism; that this freedom exists certainly cancels out whatever compulsion can be said to exist and so would have rendered the law unconstitutional. This Court went on to hold that freedom to associate under section 40 of the 1999 Constitution certainly includes the freedom to disassociate or not to associate; and sections 5(3) of the Labour Act and 16A of the TUA, now section 17(a) and (b), certainly accommodate this and so are also constitutional”.

Indeed, in NUSDE v.  SEWUN [supra], judgment of which was delivered by a panel consisting Hon. Justice B. B. Kanyip (Presiding Judge), Hon. Justice O. A. Obaseki-Osaghae and Hon. Justice J. T. Agbadu-Fishim, this Court held that though the positive right to associate also includes the negative right not to associate, the positive right to associate can only be exercised within the framework of the organizational jurisdiction of trade unions under the Trade Unions Act, CAP T9, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, as amended. That workers who decide not to join the statutorily recognized unions listed under the Trade Unions Act have the right so to do but such workers “may have to remain union-less”.

 

In NUPENG v. MWUN [2012] 28 NLLR (Pt.80) 309 NIC, it was explained, inter alia that: “We must state that the dire need to streamline trade unions as a result of proliferation and a chaotic labour regime led to the restructuring of trade unions beginning with the restructuring exercise as contained in the legal notice No. 92 Re-structuring of Trade Unions, official Gazette of the Federal Republic of Nigeria No. 6 of 8th February 1978. This culminated in the restructuring exercise under Decree 4 and 26 of 1996 where trade unions were restructured into named unions listed out and their respective jurisdictional scope provided for, all in Third Schedule Parts A,B and C to the Trade Unions Act, as amended....”

8.0. CLOSING REMARK

In my closing remark, I would like to reiterate once again, that no one should forget or pretend to forget the historical and legendary struggles of NUPENG and PENGASSAN against the military for the restoration of our Democracy. It is this same democracy that brought all of us together under same roof here.

 

Thank you and God bless you all

 

Submitted for the consideration of the Honourable Committee by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG)

NUPENG MOURNS THE IRREPLACEABLE LOSS OF COMRADE ABIODUN ‘AREMSON’ AREMU, A TOWERING PILLAR OF THE WORKING CLASS

13^th October, 2025

The leadership and entire membership of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) expresses it's profound grief and a deep sense of monumental loss following the transition of one of Nigeria’s finest revolutionaries and internationalists, Comrade Abiodun ‘Aremson’ Aremu, who joined the pantheon of revolutionary ancestors on Sunday, October 12, 2025.

Our hearts are heavy, and the entire Labour Movement in Nigeria stands still, shrouded in sorrow. Comrade Aremu was not just a leader; he was the very conscience of the struggle, an inimitable force whose life was a testament to unwavering commitment to the emancipation of the working class and the oppressed globally.

We remember with immense gratitude his visionary leadership, which gave birth to enduring structures for collaboration and solidarity within the Labour Movement. The establishment of the Labour, Civil Society Coalition (LASCO) and the Kolagbodi Memorial Foundation stands as a permanent monument to his strategic mind and his unshakeable belief in unity as the bedrock of power for the masses.

 

Beyond the structures, Comrade Aremu built people. With foresight and passion, he nurtured the Amilcar Cabral Ideological School (ACIS-M) to conscience the youths, provide them with praxis, and mould them into the revolutionary torchbearers of tomorrow. His life was a school, and his words, a curriculum for liberation.

His solidarity knew no borders. As the Secretary of the Nigeria Movement for the Liberation of Western Sahara and the Nigerian Movement of Solidarity with Cuba, he was a true citizen of the world.

The prestigious Friendship Medal awarded to him by the Cuban government stands as a global testament to his outstanding internationalism, a virtue so rare and so noble.

Today, the silence left by his voice is deafening. Yet, in this valley of tears, we hear his clarion call echo: "Forward Ever, Backward Never!"

The greatest honour we, the members of NUPENG and the entire working class, can bestow upon our fearless teacher and leader is not just in our mourning, but in our resolve.

We pledge to continue steadfastly in his footsteps, to pick up the banner he has laid down, and to rededicate ourselves to the relentless pursuit of a world founded on equity, dignity, and social justice.

As bid our farewell to a giant, we extend our deepest condolences to his immediate family, his comrades in the JAF, the ACIS-M, and all whose lives were touched by his radiant spirit.

His physical presence is gone, but the fire of his ideology and the strength of his conviction will forever burn brightly within us.

Our Solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us Strong!

Forward Ever, Backward Never!

Signed:

FOR: NIGERIA UNION OF PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS WORKERS

 

COMRADE (PRINCE) WILLIAMS AKPOREHA                            

 National Executive President

COMRADE AFOLABI OLAWALE

             General Secretary

 

2025 WORLD DAY FOR DECENT WORK

7^TH OCTOBER 2025.

THEME: "FOR DEMOCRACY THAT DELIVERS DECENT WORK"

On this World Day for Decent Work, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) raises a firm voice: a democracy that cannot guarantee decent work for the hands that build its wealth is a failed promise. The theme, "For Democracy That Delivers Decent Work," is a direct challenge to the systemic injustices within Nigeria's oil and gas sector. True democracy must be felt not just at the ballot box but in the pay packet, the safe workplace, and the right to speak collectively without fear. When the immense wealth our members generate fuels the nation while they are denied the basics of dignity, it represents a profound democratic deficit that can no longer be ignored.

This deficit is starkly visible in the relentless anti-union onslaught faced by workers. We condemn the tactics of intimidation, the victimization of workers, and the proliferation of precarious contracts designed to silence collective voices and suppress wages. Multinational and indigenous companies alike are actively eroding workers' rights, creating an atmosphere of fear where demanding safety standards or a living wage is met with threats and retrenchment. These actions are not just an attack on NUPENG; they are an attack on the very fabric of social justice and a blatant violation of the democratic principles Nigeria purports to uphold.

Therefore, our message is unequivocal: the struggle for decent work and the struggle for a vibrant democracy are one and the same. NUPENG will not be cowed. We demand immediate and concrete action from the government to enforce labour laws and protect the right to organize, and we call on all ethical stakeholders to stand with us against this corporate tyranny. We will continue to mobilize, organize, and fight until every worker in our sector enjoys the security, dignity, and respect that is the undeniable hallmark of both decent work and a truly functional democracy.

Our Solidarity Remains Constant for the Union makes us Strong!

FOR: NIGERIA UNION OF PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS WORKERS

COMRADE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA    National Executive President

COMRADE AFOLABI OLAWALE       General Secretary