by Joshua Timi
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a reorganization of its operations, citing safety concerns and repeated acts of sabotage as the primary reasons behind the move. The company emphasized that the decision was taken to ensure the long-term stability of the refinery, a strategic national asset, and to protect the livelihoods of thousands of workers.
In a press statement, the refinery clarified that the reorganization was necessary to safeguard the facility from intermittent acts of sabotage that have had dire consequences on human life and operational efficiency. “We remain vigilant to our internal systems and vulnerabilities to ensure the long-term stability of this strategic national asset,” the statement read.
The company stressed its commitment to safety and integrity, noting that the reorganization was in the best interest of the refinery and its workers. “It is imperative to protect the refinery for the benefit of Nigerians, our partners across Africa, and the thousands of people whose livelihoods depend on it,” the statement added.
Despite the reorganization, the refinery assured that over 3,000 Nigerians continue to work actively at the facility. “Only a very small number of staff were affected, as we continue to recruit Nigerian talent through our various graduate trainee programmes and experienced hire recruitment process,” the statement highlighted.
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery also reaffirmed its commitment to upholding internationally accepted labor principles, including the right of workers to freely decide whether or not to join a union. “Our commitment to workers’ rights is unwavering,” the statement emphasized.
The refinery’s management expressed its dedication to serving Nigerians, strengthening Africa’s energy independence, and creating sustainable jobs. “We will continue to work in partnership with our employees, regulators, and stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of safety, transparency, and accountability,” the statement concluded.
The reorganization comes at a critical time for the refinery, which has faced significant challenges in recent months. However, the company’s commitment to safety and workers’ rights signals a proactive approach to addressing these issues and ensuring the facility’s continued success.
