International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women to Human Rights Day (Activism Against Gender-Based Violence)

A Call to Action from NUPENG Gender Desk

The Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) actively supports the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign observed annually from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day). This period serves as a critical reminder of the pervasive impact of gender-based violence (GBV) and the collective responsibility to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls (VAWG) across private, public, workplace, and online spaces, while promoting gender equality. It is a powerful reminder of the pervasive nature of this violence and a call for collective action to hold decision-makers accountable.

Why This Campaign Matters

Violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread, persistent, and devastating human rights violations globally. According to UN statistics, one in three women experience violence during her lifetime. The impact transcends borders, cultures, and socio-economic divides, with girls particularly vulnerable to forms of violence like:

• Domestic abuse

• Sexual harassment

• Human trafficking

• Child marriage

Femicide, the most brutal manifestation of GBV, defined as the intentional killing of women or girls due to their gender.

The latest report from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and UN Women reveals that femicide is rising globally. Many gender-related killings are linked not just to intimate partners or family members but also to other contexts like:

• Sexual violence by strangers

• Harmful practices (e.g., child marriage, female genital mutilation, and honor killings)

• Hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity

• Armed conflict and organized crime

Alarmingly, four in ten intentional murders of women and girls remain unclassified as gender-related due to inadequate investigation and criminal justice recording practices.

 Themes and Focus Areas

For 2024, the campaign theme, "UNiTE: Call to Action—Ending Violence Against Women Now!” emphasizes the urgency of concrete solutions. Key focus areas include:

1. Strengthening Legal Protections: Advocating robust laws to hold perpetrators accountable and safeguard survivors.

2. Addressing Harmful Socio-Cultural Norms: Challenging traditions, stereotypes, and practices that perpetuate gender inequality.

3. Promoting Economic Empowerment: Supporting women with education, employment, and financial independence to reduce vulnerability.

4. Enhancing Survivor Support Services: Ensuring access to healthcare, legal aid, and counseling for victims.

Taking Action

For Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), this period represents an opportunity to champion the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) within Nigeria's Oil and Gas sectors. The campaign encourages participation at all levels, from grassroots movements to online advocacy. You can make a difference by:

• Raising Awareness: Share stories, resources, and statistics using hashtags like #16Days, #EndViolence, and #OrangeTheWorld.

• Engaging Communities: Organize workshops, marches, or dialogues to educate and inspire action.

• Supporting Survivors: Volunteer at shelters, donate to anti-GBV organizations, or advocate for survivor-centered services.

• Advocating for Policy Change: Push for the prioritization of gender equality and resource allocation for GBV prevention and survivor support.

NUPENG calls on its members, partners, stakeholders and the Nigerian public to actively participate in ending GBV by promoting respect, equality, and accountability.

Through collective action, NUPENG reaffirms its commitment to not only empowering women in the workforce but also ensuring that no one is subjected to violence or discrimination.

 A Collective Responsibility

Ending violence against women and girls is not just a women's issue—it is a human rights imperative. Prevention must be prioritized and funded from the onset of crises. Governments, businesses, civil society, and frontline responders all have roles to play in dismantling the systems that perpetuate GBV. Peace building and development processes must explicitly address the impacts of gender-based violence to ensure justice and equality.

 Conclusion

Activism against gender-based violence seeks to break the silence surrounding this pervasive issue. It challenges societal norms, drives systemic change, and inspires solidarity to build a future free from fear and violence.

Women’s rights organizations play a pivotal role by pushing for policy changes, holding governments accountable, and providing survivor-centered services. Law enforcement and justice systems must step up by believing survivors, acting on reports of violence, and punishing perpetrators to end impunity.

By addressing GBV, NUPENG contributes to creating safer and more equitable work environments in Nigeria’s energy sector.

The Union encourages all members to join hands during the 16 Days of Activism and beyond to build a safer, more equitable world where everyone can live without fear of violence. Together, we can achieve the elimination of violence against women and girls. The time for change is now.

WELCOME ADDRESS DELIVERED BY COMRADE (PRINCE) WILLIAMS ENIREDONANA AKPOREHA, THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG AT THE GRAND COMMISSIONING CEREMONY OF NUPENG NATIONAL SECRETARIAT “NUPENG TOWER”, JIBOWU, YABA, LAGOS, ON WEDNESDAY 4TH DECEMBER 2024

Your Excellencies, Distinguished Captains of the Oil and Gas Industry, Comrades, members of the Press, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen.

It is with immense pride, profound gratitude, and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today on this historic occasion—the commissioning of the NUPENG Tower, our newly completed 7-story office Tower. This is not just a building; it is a symbol of our strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian people, the oil and gas industry, and to the future of our beloved nation.

I extend my warmest greetings to the esteemed President and Commander-in- Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), who is unavoidably absent due to greater National  but delegated a very high profile federal govt functionary in the person of our highly respected Hon. Minister of State (oil) Ministry of  Petroleum Resources, Heineken  to represent him. We welcome you sir. We want to also appreciate  our distinguished Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Governor Sanwoolu, our Chief host and great enabler of this wonderful edifice, though also on impromptu national assignment, delegated his Commissioner for Energy, Delta State Governor my own Governor Olorogun Sheriff Oborebwori also sent a high powered delegation led by Delta State Commissioner for Finance, our Mentor and friend Most Senior Comrade Mele Kolo Kyari  Sir, Pa Imodu of our time, fighter and number one worker Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of Nigeria Labour Congress, my friend  Big Brother and Boss Comrade Festus Osifo, the President of PENGASSAN and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, our highly revered Traditional Rulers present Religious leaders, Trade Unions Veterans, past  Presidents, General Secretaries and other leaders of NUPENG, and all the dignitaries present today, including our colleagues from various trade unions, captains of industry, and leaders in the downstream and upstream oil and gas sector. Your presence here today is a testament to the importance of our work and the shared vision of building a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.

Today marks the realization of a long-held dream and a monumental achievement for the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG). The completion of this 7-floor edifice signifies not only the growth and advancement of NUPENG but also the vital role we play in the advancement of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

This new National Secretariat of our great Union, suitably named ‘NUPENG TOWER” is in fulfilment of the mandate given to our regime by our teaming membership at the 40th Anniversary Celebration of our Union which was chaired by our highly respected Nonagenarian Gen Yakubu Gowon Rtd., a former Head of state and commander-in-Chief of Armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in December 2018 in Abuja. The mandate is being fulfilled in less than six years due to our collective financial discipline and prudency. This project was wholly financed from workers contributions and we are proud of the commitment, dedication and discipline of our rank and file members.

A SYMBOL OF UNITY, STRENGTH AND PROGRESS

This Tower is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a physical manifestation of the tireless efforts of every single member of NUPENG, whose services and dedication have helped shape the course of Nigeria's oil and gas industry. It is a testament to the spirit of solidarity that defines our Union and the workers who are the heartbeat of our economy.

For over four decades, NUPENG has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights and welfare of workers in the petroleum and natural gas sectors. From negotiating fair wages and safe working conditions to pushing for sustainable policies that ensure the continued growth of the industry, our union has been a voice for the voiceless, a protector of the vulnerable, and a champion of justice.

This Tower is a beacon that tells the world that we are not only a powerful voice in the labor movement but also an integral part of Nigeria’s economic and industrial transformation.

IMPACT OF NUPENG ON NIGERIA

NUPENG’s contributions to the Nigerian economy cannot be overstated. The oil and gas sector remains the backbone of our national revenue, and it is the workers, represented by NUPENG, who fuel this engine of growth. As we stand here today, we celebrate not just the building we inaugurate, but the progress we have made together as a nation.

Through our dedication and hard work, we have ensured that Nigeria remains a leading player in the global energy market. Whether in the upstream, midstream, or downstream sectors, NUPENG workers are the ones who keep the wheels of our energy sector turning, despite challenges and adversities. We are the men and women who ensure that the lights stay on, that the economy thrives, and that Nigeria’s place on the global energy stage remains secure.

As we reflect on our accomplishments, we must also acknowledge that there is still much work to be done. The road to a more sustainable, fair, and prosperous energy sector for Nigeria remains long, but we are up to the task. With unity, dedication, and a shared vision, we can overcome any obstacle.

THE ROLE OF GOVERNMENT AND INDUSTRY PARTNERS

I would like to take this moment to thank the Government of Nigeria, being ably led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for its unwavering support for the oil and gas industry and the Renewed Hope Agenda. Your policies have helped pave the way for growth and development, but the work does not stop here. We must work together to ensure that Nigeria’s energy future is sustainable, inclusive, and equitable for all Nigerians.

To our industry partners in the downstream sector, we appreciate your collaboration and shared commitment to the success of our industry. The challenges of today require collective effort, and we must continue to strengthen our partnerships to ensure that our sector remains globally competitive and capable of meeting the needs of all Nigerians.

A CALL TO ACTION: BUILDING THE FUTURE OF NIGERIA

As we stand at the threshold of a new chapter in NUPENG’s history, I call on all of us—government, industry, and labor—to work hand in hand in shaping the future of Nigeria’s energy landscape. Let us commit ourselves to policies that not only foster the growth of the industry but also ensure that the benefits of this growth reach every Nigerian. Let us continue to prioritize the welfare of workers, uphold safety standards, and invest in the development of skills and technology that will drive us toward a more sustainable future.

NUPENG has always been about more than just negotiations and contracts. We are about people. We are about ensuring that the workers who power this nation receive the dignity, respect, and fair compensation they deserve. We are about creating an environment where prosperity is shared by all. As we look toward the future, I am confident that we will continue to rise, evolve, and meet the challenges of tomorrow with the same determination that has defined us for over 40 years.

IN CONCLUSION

Permit me on behalf of National Executive council to specially appreciate our erudite and pragmatic workaholic General Secretary, my friend, Comrade Afolabi Olawole who took this project personal and was our pillar of strength during this period. It’s also very necessary I recognize the great commitment and efforts of my SUPER Comrade Otunba Salimon Oladiti National trustee of NUPENG who exhibited strong will and determination towards attainment of project during his reign as Chairman of our great petroleum Tanker Driver Branch . And also  not leaving behind the  recognition of the commitment  shown are  the Headquarter secretariat staff who toiled stood firm and joined in the supervision of the project. May posterity be kind to you all.

The completed NUPENG Tower stands as a tribute to the dedication of the workers who have built this country and the vision of those who continue to fight for a better future. It symbolizes our commitment to excellence, progress, and unity.

As we commission this Tower today, let us redouble our efforts in building not just physical structures but also the enduring legacy of a just, prosperous, and equitable Nigeria.

Thank you all for your continued support, your partnership, and your belief in the future of NUPENG and Nigeria. Together, we will continue to achieve great things.

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

Once again, we thank you all for coming and pray that God grants you all journey mercies to your various destinations.

Long live NUPENG!

Long live Nigeria Labour Congress!!

Long live Federal republic of Nigeria!!!

Thank you.

COMRADE (PRINCE) WILLIAM ENIREDONANA AKPOREHA

PRESIDENT OF NUPENG

WELCOME ADDRESS BY THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG, COMRADE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA, AT THE 2024 NUPENG NATIONAL EDUCATION SEMINAR

Theme: "Climate Change and the World of Work: Issues and Concerns for Consideration"  .

Date: Tuesday, 3rd December, 2024

Venue: NUPENG Tower, Jibowu, Yaba, Lagos

Distinguished Comrades,

Esteemed Members of the National Executive Council (NEC) of NUPENG,

Captains of Industry, Stakeholders, and Invited Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is with immense pleasure and a profound sense of responsibility that I welcome you all to the 2024 National Education Seminar of our great union, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG). On behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC), I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for honoring our invitation and joining us here at the iconic NUPENG Tower in Lagos.

This year's seminar is both timely and significant as we gather to deliberate on the theme: "Climate Change and the World of Work: Issues and Concerns for Consideration." This theme underscores the urgent need to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time—climate change—and its far-reaching implications on workers, industries, and society at large.

As workers in the petroleum and natural gas sector, we are uniquely positioned at the crossroads of an evolving global energy landscape and the ongoing battle against climate change. The dialogue we commence here today is vital to ensuring that the voices of workers are not only heard but are instrumental in shaping sustainable policies and practices.

Distinguished Participants, the reality of climate change is undeniable. Rising global temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, and an increased frequency of natural disasters are disrupting lives and livelihoods. While governments and corporations focus on strategies to mitigate its impact, we must not forget the critical intersection of climate change and the world of work.

This seminar aims to explore the profound implications of climate change on our sector and to answer some critical questions:

• How do we ensure that the transition to cleaner and greener energy sources is just and equitable for workers in the petroleum and natural gas industry?

• What role do trade unions, such as NUPENG, play in advocating for sustainable practices while safeguarding the rights and welfare of our members?

• How can we proactively prepare for the shifts in job demands and skill requirements that are inevitable in a low-carbon economy?

• And perhaps most importantly, how do we align our activities with global sustainability goals without compromising the dignity of labor?

Comrades and participants, this seminar is not just a gathering of minds but a platform to harness our collective insights, share experiences, and develop actionable strategies that address the dual challenges of environmental sustainability and economic resilience. Let us seize this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to protecting our environment while ensuring that workers are not left behind in the global shift towards sustainable development.

I urge you all to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by this seminar. Equip yourselves with the relevant knowledge to navigate the evolving world of work and share these insights with your various branches to benefit all members.

In conclusion, let me reiterate that the outcome of this seminar will not be mere academic exercises. The resolutions we arrive at will serve as a compass for our union's advocacy, policy interventions, and capacity-building efforts in the coming years. We must remain steadfast in our resolve to champion a future where economic growth and environmental preservation go hand in hand.

On behalf of the leadership of NUPENG, I express my profound gratitude to our organizing committee for their hard work and dedication in putting this event together. I also acknowledge our esteemed resource persons and panelists for their willingness to share their knowledge and expertise with us.

Once again, I welcome you all to this pivotal seminar. Together, let us rise to the occasion, engage robustly, and leave here with actionable solutions to the pressing issues before us.

Thank you, and I wish you a productive and enlightening seminar.

Long live NUPENG!

Long live the Nigerian Worker!

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Workers United Can Never Be Defeated!!

Thank you.

Comrade Williams Akporeha

NUPENG National President

ECHOES FROM THE GRAND COMMISSIONING CEREMONY OF NUPENG NATIONAL SECRETARIAT “NUPENG TOWER”, JIBOWU, YABA, LAGOS, ON WEDNESDAY 4TH DECEMBER 2024

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