The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has confirmed that it recently laid off some workers as part of an ongoing reorganisation exercise aimed at curbing repeated acts of sabotage that pose safety risks disrupt operations.
According to the refinery, the decision was taken in the best interest of the refinery and to protect it from further damage.
“We remain vigilant to our internal systems and vulnerabilities to ensure the long-term stability of this strategic national asset,” the refinery disclosed in a statement on Friday.
“It is imperative to protect the refinery for the benefit of Nigerians, our partners across Africa, and the thousands of people whose livelihoods depend on it.”
The Dangote refinery noted its commitment to workers’ rights, stating that it upholds internationally accepted labour principles, including the right of every worker to freely decide whether or not to join a union.
The refinery’s management explained that the reorganisation was designed to plug leakages and protect the company’s assets following repeated acts of sabotage.
“Some acts of sabotage have been noticed repeatedly and the company is only trying to safeguard its assets,” a senior official said.
The refinery assured that the affected staff would be reabsorbed once the issues are addressed.
The Dangote Refinery reiterated its commitment to creating decent, sustainable jobs and strengthening Africa’s energy independence. “The Dangote Petroleum Refinery exists to serve Nigerians, to strengthen Africa’s energy independence, and to create decent, sustainable jobs,” the company stated.
Over 3,000 Nigerians continue to work actively in the refinery, and the company is committed to recruiting more Nigerian talent through its graduate trainee programs and experienced hire recruitment process.
Meanwhile, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has expressed outrage over the mass sack, accusing the refinery of planning to hire 2,000 Indians to replace the affected workers.
PENGASSAN’s National President, Comrade Festus Osifo, announced plans to convene an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting to determine the best course of action.
The union vowed to resolve the issue and protect workers’ rights, potentially exploring all sections of the Nigerian Constitution and relevant labour laws.
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