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Dangote, NUPENG agreement collapses as union orders fuel loading suspension

Published

9 months ago

September 12, 2025

Dangote, NUPENG agreement collapses as union orders fuel loading suspension

Barely 48 hours after the Department of State Services (DSS) brokered peace between Dangote Group and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), fresh dispute has erupted between the duo, Daily Trust can report.

Specifically, the leadership of the union halted loading of fuel at the loading bay of the refinery on Thursday following the company’s directive to its drivers to remove all the union stickers pasted on their trucks on Wednesday.

Daily Trust reports that the DSS had on Tuesday brokered peace between the duo after the first reconciliatory meeting that was held on Monday at Labour Ministry’s ended in a stalemate over dispute that borders on unionisation.

Following a closed-door meeting that was held at the headquarters of the secret police in Abuja, the leadership of NUPENG directed its members to suspend the nationwide industrial action.

Sources who were familiar with what transpired on Wednesday and Thursday confided in our correspondent that the removal order by the company angered the union leaders, and they summoned an emergency meeting over the matter.

“On Wednesday morning, based on the agreement reached on Tuesday at the DSS headquarters, our members working with Dangote Refinery were called, we didn’t force anybody and we handed over stickers to them.

“To our surprise, after a few hours, we heard that the company directed all of them to remove the stickers. Meanwhile, not all of them even collected the stickers ab initio. We thought it was a rumour.

“When we came here this morning (Thursday), we noticed that all the pasted stickers had been removed. This negates the agreement we had during Tuesday’s meeting,” one of the union leaders told Daily Trust.

Confirming the development, NUPENG President, Williams Akporeha, said it is not yet Uhuru for both the union and the company, saying the Managing Director of the company is not bigger than the government who intervened earlier.

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Akporeha said, “This is to alert the general public and the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that notwithstanding the resolution reached and signed at the office of the DSS with three Ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Deputy Director-General of the DSS in attendance on the right of unionization of the workers, Alh Sayyu Aliu Dantata on Wednesday, 10th September, 2025 instructed all his Truck Drivers who are NUPENG-PTD members for several years to remove the union stickers from their trucks yesterday.

“Today, Thursday, 11th September, 2025, he instructed them to forcefully drive into Dangote Refinery to load and Union officials stopped them from entering the Refinery to load because their trucks violated union loading rules and regulations.

“Alh Sayyu Aliu Dantata flew over them several times with his helicopter and then called the Navy of the Federal Republic to come over ostensibly to crush the Union officials.

“Our members are waiting for him and his agents to run them over. We call on everyone to let Alh Sayyu Aliu Dantata know that he is not bigger than the Federal Republic of Nigeria and we strongly condemn his arrogant attitude towards official institutions of this great country and blatant lack of respect for the laws of this country.

“We call on the Federal Government not to allow the Navy and other security agents being paid with the resources of this country, to be used with impunity against the laws and people of this country.”

NUPENG president, however, placed all its members on red alert for the resumption of the suspended nationwide industrial action, while calling on the Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, and civil society organizations to rise in support and solidarity against the threat of the capitalist world.

Reacting in a statement last night, the management of Dangote Group said the refinery maintains a cordial and cooperative relationship with all recognised trade unions, including NUPENG.

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“We have consistently supported their legitimate activities within our facility, including providing office space and enabling member engagement and dues collection without interference.

“Since the refinery became operational, our activities have contributed positively to union revenue and engagement. While we remain open to constructive dialogue, we will not tolerate economic sabotage, coercion, or blackmail under the guise of labour activism,” the group said in a statement.

While acknowledging the intervention of the federal government, Dangote refinery said it remains fully supportive of ongoing efforts to achieve a lasting resolution.

“We hold both the minister, Dr Mohammed Dingyadi (Katuka Sokoto) and Mrs. Nkiruka Onyejeocha, in the highest regard, and reject any suggestion that we have acted in a manner that would undermine their involvement. The minister granted Mallam Sayyu Dantata the permit to enable him to attend to his medication.

“It is therefore both unfounded and regrettable for NUPENG to allege that our representatives staged a walkout during the conciliation meeting. Moreover, NUPENG did not engage with Dangote Petroleum Refinery on any grievance prior to threatening industrial action and issuing public allegations, an approach that is disappointing given the positive working relationship we have consistently maintained.

“We urge NUPENG to act in good faith, respect the ongoing dialogue process, and refrain from making statements that could undermine national economic recovery efforts led by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR,” the group said.

On the right to unionise, Dangote Petroleum Refinery said it fully upholds the constitutional and international principle that trade union membership is a voluntary right.

“The current industrial matter is an internal dispute with NUPENG, specifically involving its Petrol Tanker Drivers (PTD) unit. It is therefore misplaced to attribute responsibility to Dangote Petroleum Refinery for the personal choices made by drivers regarding union affiliation,” it said.

On monopoly and market competition, the Dangote refinery said it operates within a deregulated market framework, under the oversight of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

It declared that the “Assertion of monopolistic intent is both legally and factually incorrect.”

The group said “Dangote refinery has brought down Gasoline prices more than eight times in the last one and half year just to stabilize the domestic energy prices and supplies. No more demurrage payment by the NNPC.”

Dangote, NUPENG agreement collapses as union orders fuel loading suspension

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Dangote Refinery Announces New Petrol Price as Crude Oil Eases

Published

18 hours ago

June 16, 2026

Trends Admin

Dangote Refinery Announces New Petrol Price as Crude Oil Eases

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a ₦75 reduction in the gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, lowering the rate from ₦1,250 to ₦1,175 per litre in a move expected to influence Nigeria’s downstream fuel market.

In a notice issued to fuel marketers, the refinery said the adjustment takes effect from midnight on June 16, 2026, and applies to all outstanding but yet-to-be-loaded gantry volumes, which will be repriced at the new rate. The company also reduced its coastal petrol price per metric tonne from ₦1,595,790 to ₦1,495,215, reflecting a broader downward review across its pricing structure.

The refinery explained that the decision was influenced by the easing of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which had previously driven up global energy costs and caused volatility in the international oil market. It added that improved diplomatic engagements around key global shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, have helped stabilize crude oil movement and pricing.

The international oil market had experienced significant pressure in recent months following tensions between major global powers, which pushed crude prices above $120 per barrel at the peak of the crisis. However, with renewed diplomatic discussions and easing tensions, crude prices have begun to stabilize, recently trading around the $80 per barrel range, offering some relief to refining and import costs globally.

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Since crude oil is the primary raw material for petrol production, changes in global prices directly affect refined product pricing across markets, including Nigeria.

The latest price adjustment positions the Dangote refinery as one of the most competitive suppliers in Nigeria’s deregulated downstream sector. Industry data from market tracking platforms indicate that petrol is currently being sold by some marketers at around ₦1,240 per litre, depending on logistics, location, and distribution costs.

The reduction is expected to gradually influence retail pump prices nationwide, although final consumer prices will still depend on transportation costs, dealer margins, and regional supply dynamics. Regulatory oversight is provided by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, which continues to monitor pricing trends and market stability in the downstream sector. Major industry players such as NNPC Limited are also expected to adjust their pricing strategies in response to shifts in the refinery’s ex-depot rates.

The latest petrol price reduction in Nigeria is expected to bring moderate relief to consumers already grappling with fluctuating fuel costs. However, analysts note that despite lower ex-depot prices, retail fuel prices may vary across states due to logistics costs and supply chain factors. If global crude oil prices remain stable or continue to decline, further downward adjustments in fuel prices may be possible in the coming weeks.

Dangote Refinery Announces New Petrol Price as Crude Oil Eases

Business

SERAP Takes NNPCL to Court Over Alleged ₦5.9bn Rebranding Expenditure

Published

3 days ago

June 14, 2026

Trends Admin

SERAP Takes NNPCL to Court Over Alleged ₦5.9bn Rebranding Expenditure

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has dragged the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to court over an alleged ₦5.9 billion expenditure linked to the incorporation, transition and rebranding of the former Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) into NNPCL.

The lawsuit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja and marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1248/2026, seeks an order compelling NNPCL to provide a comprehensive account of how the funds were spent and whether all approvals and procurement procedures were properly followed.

According to SERAP, the disputed amount comprises about ₦2.9 billion reportedly spent on incorporation expenses from petroleum product proceeds and another ₦2.9 billion allegedly charged by the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS) to crude oil revenues for the transition process.

The rights group is asking the court to direct NNPCL to release a detailed reconciliation statement showing all financial transactions related to the expenditure. SERAP is also seeking information on contractors involved in the rebranding exercise, the services they rendered, and the amounts paid to them.

In addition, SERAP wants NNPCL to disclose the identities and official positions of government officials who approved and authorized the expenditure. The organization argues that Nigerians have a constitutional right to know how public resources were utilized during the transformation of NNPC into NNPCL.

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The suit was filed by SERAP’s legal team, including Oluwakemi Agunbiade, Kehinde Oyewumi and Andrew Nwankwo. According to the organization, transparency and accountability are essential in the management of public funds, particularly in the oil and gas sector, which remains one of Nigeria’s most important sources of revenue.

SERAP maintained that the public deserves answers regarding who approved the spending, who received the funds, and whether the expenditure represented value for money. The organization further argued that the alleged failure to account for the funds raises concerns about public trust and good governance.

The lawsuit also references concerns reportedly raised by the Senate Committee on Public Accounts, which questioned the size of the expenditure and reportedly called for further explanations and legislative scrutiny.

Before approaching the court, SERAP had written to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to direct anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to investigate the reported spending and identify those responsible for approving and receiving the funds.

According to SERAP, the matter goes beyond financial disclosure and touches on broader issues of accountability, transparency and responsible management of national resources. The organization contends that failure to provide details of the expenditure may be inconsistent with constitutional provisions designed to promote openness in public administration.

SERAP also cited Nigeria’s obligations under international anti-corruption frameworks, including the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which emphasize transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.

The transformation of NNPC into NNPCL followed the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, which restructured the national oil company into a commercially oriented limited liability company wholly owned by the Federal Government. The transition was officially unveiled in July 2022 as part of efforts to reform Nigeria’s petroleum industry and improve operational efficiency.

As of the time of filing this report, no hearing date has been fixed for the case, while NNPCL has not publicly responded to the allegations contained in the lawsuit.

SERAP Takes NNPCL to Court Over Alleged ₦5.9bn Rebranding Expenditure

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Toyota Celebrates Customers, Partners as Zenith Bank Clinches Top Honour

Published

3 days ago

June 14, 2026

Trends Admin

L-R: Chairman of Toyota Nigeria Limited, Chief Michael Ade.Ojo; Head of Admin and Due Diligence, Zenith Bank, Mr. Callixtus Nwodo; and Head, Dealer Development and Special Duties at Toyota Nigeria Limited, Mr. Henry Ojuoko, during the presentation of Toyota Starlet Cross to Zenith as winner of TNL Evergreen Customer award in Lagos.

Toyota Celebrates Customers, Partners as Zenith Bank Clinches Top Honour

Toyota (Nigeria) Limited celebrated customer loyalty, strategic partnerships and industry excellence at its 2026 Awards and Customers’ Night in Lagos, with Zenith Bank, AGL Motors and leading automotive journalists emerging among the biggest winners.

The event, which coincided with Toyota Nigeria’s 30th anniversary celebrations, attracted customers, dealers, government officials, financial institutions, media practitioners and other stakeholders who have contributed to the company’s growth over the past three decades.

A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Evergreen Customer of the Year Award to Zenith Bank Plc in recognition of its status as Toyota Nigeria’s most consistent customer over the last five years.

The award came with a brand-new Toyota Starlet Cross, presented by the company’s Chairman and founder, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo.

Managing Director of Toyota Nigeria Limited, Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo; Chairman of TNL, Chief Michael Ade.Ojo, and MD/CEO, AGL Motors Ltd, Alhaji AbdulAfeez Gabar Lado, at the presentation of the 2025 best customer award to AGL Motors at the Toyota Awards in Lagos.

AGL Motors received recognition as Customer of the Year after recording the highest volume of Toyota vehicle purchases in 2025. The Nigerian Army and Zenith Bank finished as first and second runners-up respectively in the category, with winners receiving office equipment worth several millions of naira.

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Toyota Nigeria also used the occasion to honour members of the media for their contributions to automotive journalism and public understanding of developments in the sector. Theodore Opara of Vanguard won the Journalist of the Year Award, while Mike Ochonma of Transport World and Rasheed Bisiriyu of Newstrends emerged first and second runners-up respectively.

In his address, Managing Director of Toyota Nigeria, Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo, described the annual gathering as a celebration of the enduring relationships that have shaped the company’s success since it commenced operations in 1996.

“Tonight is a moment of reflection, celebration and renewed commitment,” he said, noting that the event underscores Toyota’s customer-first philosophy and appreciation for the loyalty and trust of its stakeholders.

According to him, Toyota Nigeria has grown into one of the country’s most trusted automotive brands through its commitment to quality products, reliable after-sales support and continuous investment in customer satisfaction.

Ade-Ojo assured customers that despite prevailing economic challenges, the company would continue to introduce initiatives aimed at making vehicle ownership easier and more accessible for Nigerians.

He also expressed appreciation to dealers, customers, suppliers, consultants, financial institutions and employees for their support over the years, describing them as critical partners in Toyota Nigeria’s journey and future growth.