NUPENG Suspends Strike After DSS-Brokered Agreement

By Diafa Doubra,

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has suspended its nationwide strike following an agreement brokered by the Department of State Services (DSS) with the Federal Government and the Dangote Group.

The strike, which began earlier this week, had sparked fears of fuel scarcity and disruption in economic activities across the country. NUPENG had accused the Dangote Petroleum Refinery of unfair labour practices and alleged attempts to sideline local workers and contractors in its operations.

After hours of closed-door negotiations in Abuja, officials from the DSS facilitated a truce between the warring parties. In a joint communiqué issued late Tuesday, the government, Dangote Group, and NUPENG agreed to set up a monitoring committee to ensure compliance with labour laws, protect workers’ rights, and resolve outstanding disputes.

Speaking after the meeting, NUPENG President, Williams Akporeha, confirmed the suspension of the strike, stressing that the union remained committed to defending the welfare of oil and gas workers. He, however, warned that the strike could resume if the agreements reached are not implemented in good faith.

The suspension of the strike has brought relief to Nigerians, many of whom had already begun experiencing panic buying of fuel in major cities. The Federal Government has assured the public that normal fuel distribution will be restored immediately.