Dangote refinery clarified that, contrary to NUPENG’s assertions

The management of Dangote Petroleum Refinery has strongly dismissed recent allegations by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), stressing that the claims are unfounded, misleading, and capable of undermining the morale of its workforce.

In a statement released on Thursday, the refinery described the allegations—which suggested poor labor practices, disregard for workers’ welfare, and reluctance to engage in energy transition—as “baseless and inconsistent with the facts on ground.” Management emphasized that Dangote Refinery remains committed to upholding international best practices, safeguarding jobs, and aligning with global energy sustainability goals.

Defending Workers’ Welfare

The refinery clarified that contrary to NUPENG’s assertions, employees enjoy competitive wages, comprehensive welfare packages, and conducive working conditions. It noted that thousands of Nigerian engineers, technicians, and skilled workers are directly employed at the refinery, while many more benefit indirectly through supply chains and ancillary services.

“We place a premium on human capital. Our staff are not just employees; they are vital partners in this transformative project,” the company said. “The welfare and safety of every worker remain our utmost priority, and we have consistently demonstrated this through transparent policies, health insurance schemes, and a safe work environment.”

Industry experts point out that the Dangote Refinery, with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, is not only the largest in Africa but also one of the most sophisticated globally. It is expected to significantly reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products and create a ripple effect across industries, with massive employment opportunities in logistics, transportation, and petrochemicals.

Commitment to Energy Transition

Addressing concerns about energy transition, the management reaffirmed its long-term plan to diversify into cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. It highlighted ongoing research collaborations with international partners on gas utilization, petrochemicals, and renewable energy integration.

“As the world moves toward cleaner energy, Dangote Refinery is not left behind. We are committed to innovation and to aligning our operations with Nigeria’s climate goals, while ensuring energy security and affordability for millions of households,” the statement read.

The company underscored that Nigeria cannot afford a hasty abandonment of fossil fuels without first consolidating energy independence. It argued that the refinery will serve as a stabilizing force during the transition period, reducing foreign exchange pressures from fuel imports and creating a platform for gradual diversification.

Stakeholder Engagement

While rebuffing NUPENG’s claims, Dangote Refinery expressed readiness for dialogue with labor unions, regulators, and civil society. It stressed that constructive engagement, rather than confrontation, is the best path to building trust and ensuring that Nigeria’s energy sector remains robust.

Analysts note that this development highlights the delicate balance between labor expectations and corporate realities in Nigeria’s evolving oil and gas landscape. With unemployment and energy insecurity pressing hard on the nation, projects like the Dangote Refinery are seen as critical to stabilizing the economy.

Looking Ahead

The refinery’s management called on Nigerians to remain confident in its mission to drive industrial growth, create jobs, and position the country as a hub for energy solutions in Africa.

“Our vision is not just to refine crude oil, but to refine hope for millions of Nigerians. We will continue to stand for jobs, innovation, and a sustainable future,” the statement concluded.