The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has sounded a strong warning over rising job losses and what it describes as increasing suppression of workers’ rights within Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Speaking during his valedictory address at the union’s 6th Quadrennial Delegates Conference held in Lagos, NUPENG President, Prince Williams Akporeha, expressed deep concern about the human cost of ongoing industry reforms. According to him, many workers—particularly those operating in the informal segment—are facing severe economic hardship.
He pointed directly to the removal of fuel subsidy as a major factor behind the growing challenges, noting that its ripple effects have disrupted livelihoods across the sector. Akporeha stressed that while reforms are inevitable, they must not come at the expense of workers’ welfare.
He called on the government to take proactive steps by investing in reskilling and retraining programmes to support workers through the transition, especially as the industry shifts focus toward gas as an alternative energy source.
The NUPENG leader also criticised what he described as the exclusion of workers’ representatives from key policy decisions, warning that sidelining unions could deepen tensions and instability within the sector.
Raising further concerns, Akporeha alleged a rise in unfair labour practices, including attempts to weaken union participation. He cited instances where drivers were reportedly employed under restrictive conditions and compelled to sign agreements discouraging union membership—actions he described as violations of both national labour laws and international standards.
Beyond labour issues, he highlighted growing security threats affecting workers, including increased cases of petroleum truck hijackings and kidnappings. He added that poor road infrastructure continues to worsen operational challenges, making the distribution of petroleum products more difficult and dangerous.
Despite the grim outlook, Akporeha noted that his administration made significant strides, including improved welfare packages, expansion of union structures, and infrastructural development within the union.
Closing his address, he urged both government and industry stakeholders to prioritise workers’ rights and job protection in all reform efforts, emphasizing that sustainable progress in the sector must include fairness, inclusion, and respect for the workforce.
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