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Truck drivers’ association counters NUPENG strike threat, calls for respect of constitutional rights

Fuel scarcity looms as IPMAN, NUPENG suspend operations

Truck drivers’ association counters NUPENG strike threat, calls for respect of constitutional rights

Abuja, Nigeria — September 6, 2025

Amid rising tensions in Nigeria’s transport and energy sectors, the Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association (DTCDA) has broken its silence on the looming industrial action announced by the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), firmly distancing itself from the industrial action and affirming its commitment to national service and constitutional values.
In a press statement issued on Saturday in Abuja following a meeting of its National Executive Council, the DTCDA emphasized that it had no affiliation with NUPENG and would not participate in the strike set to begin on Monday, September 8, 2025.
“We are not a union, and we are not joining issues with NUPENG,” said Barr. Enoch Kanawa, National President of the DTCDA.
“However, we deem it necessary to set the record straight, as stakeholders in Nigeria’s transport industry, and to prevent the public from being misled.”

“Let Drivers Choose Freely” – DTCDA Insists
The association took a firm stance in defense of drivers’ freedom of association, cautioning against any group or union attempting to coerce drivers into membership. Citing the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), DTCDA reiterated that all Nigerians — including truck drivers — have the right to choose which organization or association best serves their interests.
> “The era of forced unionism is over,” the statement read. “Any driver mature enough to operate a heavy-duty vehicle is equally mature enough to make their own choices.”
The DTCDA clarified that it represents both wet and dry cargo drivers — including those employed by large logistics companies such as Dangote Group, MRS, and others.

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Unlike traditional unions, the DTCDA focuses on welfare-driven initiatives, including healthcare, insurance, pension plans, and post-retirement support for its members.

No Disruptions, Full Support for Economic Stability
As NUPENG’s strike threat sparks fears of fuel shortages and transportation gridlock, the DTCDA assured Nigerians that its members would continue working to ensure the smooth flow of goods and services across the country.
> “We see any action that disrupts petroleum distribution as a disservice to the nation and an abuse of union power. Nigerians deserve stability, not chaos,” the group said.
In a show of national alignment, the association expressed its full support for the deregulation of the downstream sector and the Renewed Hope agenda of the current administration.
> “Our members are prepared to play a vital role in the economic development of Nigeria, particularly in logistics and supply chain operations that are key to national growth,” said Barr. Kanawa.

Federal Government Urged to Intervene
The DTCDA also called on the Federal Government and relevant agencies to take proactive measures to prevent any organization from infringing on drivers’ rights, especially through intimidation or forced membership.
> “No individual or group should recruit members through coercion. The Constitution is clear — freedom of thought, association, and expression must be protected,” the statement said.

A Shifting Landscape in the Transport Sector
The DTCDA’s position marks a growing shift in Nigeria’s transport sector, where traditional labor unions are now facing challenges from new, welfare-oriented associations. As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic reforms and union unrest, associations like the DTCDA are emerging as alternative platforms prioritizing professionalism, safety, and drivers’ long-term welfare over industrial action.