The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has expressed concern over rising job losses and what it described as growing suppression of workers’ rights in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Speaking during the union’s 6th Quadrennial Delegates Conference in Lagos, NUPENG President, Williams Akporeha, warned that ongoing reforms are placing significant strain on workers, particularly those in the informal sector.
He pointed to the impact of fuel subsidy removal, noting that many union members have lost their means of livelihood. According to him, while reforms such as the transition to gas are necessary, they must be implemented in a way that protects workers.
“This transition must be just and fair. Government must prioritise reskilling, retraining, and funding workers to adapt,” he said.
Akporeha also criticised the exclusion of labour unions from key policy decisions, warning that sidelining workers in planning processes could heighten tensions within the industry.
He further raised concerns about alleged unfair labour practices, including attempts to weaken union participation. He claimed that some workers, particularly drivers, are being engaged under restrictive conditions that discourage union membership, describing the trend as a violation of labour laws and international standards.
“NUPENG will continue to pursue all lawful means to ensure workers’ rights to unionisation and collective bargaining are protected,” he stated.
Beyond labour issues, the union president highlighted increasing insecurity affecting members, including rising cases of petroleum truck hijackings and kidnappings, which have added to operational costs and risks.
He also decried poor road infrastructure, noting that many key economic routes remain in deplorable condition, making the distribution of petroleum products more difficult and hazardous.
Despite these challenges, Akporeha outlined achievements recorded during his tenure, including improved welfare packages, expansion of union branches, and infrastructural development.
He concluded with a call on government and industry stakeholders to place workers at the centre of reforms, stressing that protecting jobs and safeguarding rights must remain a priority in Nigeria’s evolving oil and gas sector.
