The Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) has called on the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) to sheath their swords and engage in constructive dialogue to resolve their differences.
The Association’s plea is contained in a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Olufemi Adewole on Sunday.
The statement noted that the rising tension among stakeholders in the downstream oil and gas industry, and the possibility of an industrial action could disrupt national petroleum supply and distribution.
This appeal comes as NUPENG and PETROAN have threatened nationwide strike actions over grievances in the downstream oil and gas sector.
NUPENG had alleged anti-labour practices against Dangote Refinery, accusing the management of fostering exploitative labour practices reminiscent of modern-day slavery.
The union confirmed plans to begin a nationwide strike on Monday, September 8, 2025. PETROAN also announced plans to suspend the lifting and dispensing of petroleum products for three days starting Tuesday, September 9, 2025, in solidarity with NUPENG and to resist monopolistic practices in the sector.
DAPPMAN’s Executive Secretary, Olufemi Adewole, emphasised the importance of industrial harmony to the stability of the industry, protection of jobs, and government revenue.
The association urged the Federal Government to intervene in addressing the concerns of all aggrieved persons and facilitate dialogue to prevent avoidable disruptions in the sector.
DAPPMAN remained committed to playing a constructive role in facilitating peace, cooperation, and progress in the oil and gas sector ¹.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has urged NUPENG to reconsider its decision to strike, with the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, scheduling a conciliation meeting for Monday, September 8, 2025.
The government is keen on resolving the dispute amicably to avoid disruptions in the petroleum sector, which is vital to the Nigerian economy.
The proposed strike could have significant consequences, including heavy revenue losses and untold hardship for Nigerians.
The strike’s impact on ordinary citizens, businesses, and government finances cannot be overstated, making it crucial for all parties to find a peaceful resolution.
