Nigeria NUPENG Halts Fuel Distribution Nationwide Over Dangote Refinery Feud

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The Digest: ​

Members of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, have initiated a nationwide shutdown of petrol distribution. The action, effective from today, Monday, September 8, is a direct result of an ongoing dispute with Dangote Refinery.​

Key Points:

• NUPENG has ceased petrol distribution across the country, a move precipitated by its face-off with Dangote Refinery.
• The strike is in protest of Dangote Refinery's alleged plan to terminate 250,000 drivers who are members of NUPENG and hire new drivers who will not belong to the union.
• A crucial meeting has been scheduled for 3 p.m. today with the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, in an attempt to resolve the conflict.
• The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has appealed for a swift resolution and warned against any fuel price hikes during this crisis. NUPENG has also discouraged marketers from taking advantage of the situation.
• Groups reportedly backed by Dangote Refinery have spoken out against the strike, but NUPENG has dismissed them as "faceless propaganda."

The outcome of today's meeting remains to be seen, with both sides expressing hope for a resolution that will prevent further economic disruption.