The House of Representatives Committee on Downstream Petroleum Resources has stepped in to mediate the ongoing conflict between Dangote Petroleum Refinery and two major oil workers’ unions — the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).
The intervention follows growing tension between the refinery and the unions over issues related to unionisation and the alleged termination of workers involved in labour activities. Concerns have been raised that the dispute, if not promptly resolved, could affect operations at the refinery and potentially disrupt the broader downstream petroleum sector.
Chairman of the committee, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, addressed journalists in Lagos during a three-day retreat of the committee. He confirmed that the lawmakers have engaged with key stakeholders on the matter and are committed to finding a resolution that protects both workers’ rights and national interests.
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“We are proud that Nigeria finally has a functioning refinery — something we’ve long hoped for. But we must also ensure that labour rights are protected and industrial harmony is maintained,” Ugochinyere said. He emphasized that a stable industrial environment is essential for investor confidence in the oil and gas sector.
The lawmaker warned that continued hostility between the refinery and the unions could jeopardize the refinery’s operations and undermine Nigeria’s goal of achieving energy self-sufficiency. He stressed that the House committee is working to ensure that both parties return to the negotiation table.
In a related development, the committee also announced a fresh investigation into the acquisition of OVH Energy’s downstream assets by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). The probe will review the terms of the deal, funding sources, and the appointment of former OVH executives to NNPC Retail leadership positions — all amid allegations of procedural irregularities.
