Dangote Petroleum Refinery has confirmed that some of its workers have been laid off.
Gatekeepers News reports that Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) had earlier revealed that some staff members were affected by the layoffs and said discussions were ongoing to resolve the matter.
Subsequently, in a statement, Dangote Refinery clarified that only a small number were affected as part of an ongoing reorganisation exercise.
The refinery explained that the decision was taken to protect the refinery from repeated acts of sabotage, which have raised safety concerns and affected operational efficiency.
It said, “Over 3,000 Nigerians continue to work actively in our Petroleum Refinery, at present.”
“Only a very small number of staff were affected, as we continue to recruit Nigerian talent through our various graduate trainee programmes and experienced hire recruitment process.”
The refinery maintained that the exercise was not arbitrary but was carried out in the overall interest of the facility. It linked the move to intermittent cases of sabotage in the various units of the refinery, with dire consequences on human life and related safety concerns.
It added, “We remain vigilant to our internal systems and vulnerabilities to ensure the long-term stability of this strategic national asset.”
“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.
“We recognise and uphold internationally accepted labour principles, including the right of every worker to freely decide whether or not to join a union. Our commitment to workers’ rights is unwavering.”
The company emphasised that it exists to serve Nigerians, boost Africa’s energy independence, and provide decent, sustainable jobs.
Dangote refinery assured it would continue to collaborate with employees, regulators, and stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of safety, transparency, and accountability.
