Lagos, Nigeria | September 11, 2025
Fresh tension has gripped the oil sector as the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has halted the loading of petroleum products at the Dangote Refinery, raising fears of imminent fuel scarcity across the country.
The union’s action, which began on Thursday, follows unresolved disputes between NUPENG and the refinery management over welfare and labour-related issues. Truck drivers and union officials were reported to have barricaded access routes, preventing tankers from lifting refined products.
Motorists in Lagos and neighbouring states have already begun experiencing queues at filling stations, with many retailers warning of possible supply disruptions if the standoff lingers.
Industry experts say the development could impact fuel distribution nationwide, especially as the Dangote Refinery remains a key source of petrol supply in the domestic market.
Government sources hinted that discussions are ongoing between the Federal Ministry of Labour, NUPENG, and the refinery’s management to avert a prolonged crisis that could worsen the already fragile energy supply chain.
