The management of Ɗangote Petroleum Refinery has denied reports suggesting a mass sack of its workers, clarifying that the recent reorganisation within its facility was due to repeated cases of sabotage.
In a press statement issued yesterday, the refinery explained that the decision was not arbitrary but became necessary to safeguard operations and ensure safety within the facility.
“The Ɗangote Petroleum Refinery wishes to clarify recent reports concerning the ongoing reorganisation within its facility. This exercise is not arbitrary. It has become necessary to safeguard the refinery from repeated acts of sabotage that have raised safety concerns and affected operational efficiency”, the statement read.
According to the company, the restructuring was carried out in the best interest of the refinery following intermittent sabotage in various units, which had dire consequences on human life and related safety concerns. “We remain vigilant to our internal systems and vulnerabilities to ensure the long-term stability of this strategic national asset. 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”, it added.
The refinery also stressed that it continues to retain the bulk of its workforce, with thousands of Nigerians actively working in the facility.
“Over 3,000 Nigerians continue to work actively in our Petroleum Refinery, at present. 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 company stated.
Reaffirming its commitment to labour rights, the refinery noted that it upholds international labour standards, including the right of workers to freely join unions.
“We recognise and uphold internationally accepted labour principles, including the right of every worker to freely decide whether or not to join a union. Our commitment to workers’ rights is unwavering”, it further stated.
The management further assured that the refinery remains focused on its mission to serve Nigerians, strengthen Africa’s energy independence, and create decent, sustainable jobs, while working with regulators and stakeholders to maintain transparency and accountability.
“The Ɗangote Petroleum Refinery exists to serve Nigerians, to strengthen Africa’s energy independence, and to create decent, 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”.
