—- Affirms over 3,000 Nigerians still at work in Refinery, despite re – organisation
The Management of Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has denied the allegations by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association (PENGASSAN) of mass sacking of its staff because of joining the Association.
The refinery described the allegation as both unfounded and misleading, noting that the re – organisation within its workforce was aimed at strengthening operations and addressing repeated acts of sabotage.
The refinery Management revealed that more than 3,000 Nigerians, despite the re – organisation exercise, have continued to work actively at Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
“Over 3,000 Nigerians continue to work actively in our Petroleum Refinery, at present. Only a minimal number of staff were affected, as we continue to recruit Nigerian talent through our various graduate trainee programmes and experienced hire recruitment process,” it said.
The company stated that the re – organisation had become necessary following intermittent cases of sabotage within the facility, which created risks and disrupted operations.
“The foregoing decision was taken in the best interest of the Refinery as a result of sabotage in various units of the Refinery with 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” the statement noted.
Reassuring employees and stakeholders, the refinery reaffirmed its commitment to internationally accepted labour principles including workers’ freedom to decide on union membership without interference.
