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From Okwe Obi, Abuja
The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has charged the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to push for the revival of moribund refineries across the country.
PETROAN National Public Relations Officer, Dr Joseph Obele, in a congratulatory message on the emergence of Salimon Oladiti as NUPENG President, emphasized that restoring these refineries will promote healthy competition in the downstream sector, prevent monopolistic dominance, create employment opportunities across the value chain, and significantly boost national economic development.
He stressed that functional refineries will also enhance energy security and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.
Obele, on behalf of PETROAN President, Dr. Billy Gillis-Harry, described the development as a major consolidation within the downstream petroleum sector.
He noted that 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.
Also, commended the service of the former 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.
He reaffirmed PETROAN’s commitment to continued partnership with NUPENG in promoting efficiency, stability, and shared prosperity across Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
In addition, he encouraged the new NUPENG leadership to consolidate a productive and mutually beneficial relationship with the Dangote Refinery, noting 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.
“PETROAN remains confident that under Comrade Oladiti’s leadership, NUPENG will continue to foster industrial harmony, deepen stakeholder engagement, and protect the collective interests of workers and operators in the downstream petroleum sector,” he added.
