Yemisi Izuora
The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has called on the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to consolidate a productive and mutually beneficial relationship with the Dangote Refinery.
The petroleum marketing Association says that strong collaboration between organised labour and major refining operators is essential for operational stability, fair market practices, and the overall growth of Nigeria’s petroleum industry.
Congratulating the new leadership of the Union led by Comrade Salimon Oladiti, the National President of PETROAN, Billy Gillis-Harry, advised the Union to champion strong and sustained advocacy for the revival and full operationalisation of Nigeria’s government-owned refineries.
He emphasised that restoring these refineries will promote healthy competition in the downstream sector, prevent monopolistic dominance, create employment opportunities across the value chain.
Harry, said overall cooperation with local refiners and resuscitation of public refineries will significantly boost national economic development.
He stressed that functional refineries will also enhance energy security and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.
He noted that Comrade Oladiti’s emergence represents continuity, unity, and a renewed commitment to collaboration among key industry stakeholders.
He expressed confidence that under the new leadership, the welfare of petroleum workers will be further strengthened, while the collective voice of stakeholders will become more vibrant and influential in advancing national development.
The PETROAN President also commended the outstanding service of the outgoing President, Williams Akporeha, noting that his tenure witnessed remarkable achievements, including improved staff welfare, significant salary enhancements, infrastructural development such as the NUPENG national headquarters, and the maintenance of industrial peace and a stable working environment.