Hassan NaAbu
Workers warn exclusion undermines collective bargaining as union restructures downstream sector
LAGOS, Nigeria – Petrol Station Workers (PSWs) across Nigeria have raised concerns over what they describe as their continued exclusion from ongoing reforms within the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), despite constituting a significant segment of the downstream petroleum workforce.
In a press statement issued on Monday, the workers, under the banner of Concerned Petrol Station Workers, acknowledged NUPENG’s ongoing restructuring efforts—including zonal elections and preparations for a national conference—but argued that such processes have largely sidelined their interests.
Unstructured and Unprotected
The group noted that while the union has taken visible steps to strengthen its institutional framework and advance workers’ rights across the oil and gas sector, Petrol Station Workers remain “largely unstructured, insufficiently protected, and inadequately represented” within its decision-making system.
According to the statement signed by Comrade Ibrahim Zango, the situation is particularly troubling given that NUPENG’s jurisdiction extends across the entire downstream value chain, including petrol filling stations.
“Despite being one of the most visible and numerous categories of workers in the sector, PSWs continue to face poor welfare conditions, weak organisational structures, and limited voice within the union framework,” the statement read.
Vulnerable to Exploitation
The workers stressed that their exclusion undermines the core principles of unionisation and collective bargaining, especially at a time when the union is undertaking reforms aimed at improving inclusivity and representation.
The group further highlighted the vulnerability of Petrol Station Workers, citing widespread issues such as:
· Exploitation by employers
· Poor remuneration and irregular pay
· Lack of social protection and benefits
· Unsafe working conditions at many filling stations
Specific Demands to NUPENG Leadership
The group is now calling on NUPENG leadership to formally recognise and integrate Petrol Station Workers into its structure nationwide. Specifically, they demanded:
- Creation of a defined PSW structure across all zones of the union
- Inclusion of their representatives in ongoing zonal elections and national conference processes
- Development of policies that address their welfare and safety
- Establishment of a clear framework for the organisation, registration, and protection of Petrol Station Workers across the country
A Historic Opportunity
“The ongoing reforms present a historic opportunity to correct longstanding imbalances and ensure that no segment of the workforce is left behind,” the statement added.
The workers reaffirmed their commitment to industrial harmony while expressing readiness to engage constructively with union leadership to secure better representation within the sector.
No official response has been issued by NUPENG leadership at the time of this report.
Middle-Belt Times 