The management of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has clarified the reasons behind its ongoing reorganisation exercise, stating that the move is aimed at addressing repeated acts of sabotage and safeguarding the facility’s long-term stability.
In a statement issued on Friday, the company stressed that the decision was not arbitrary but became necessary to tackle “intermittent cases of sabotage in the various units of the Refinery with dire consequences on human life and related safety concerns.”
The management noted that the refinery remains a strategic national asset that must be protected for the benefit of Nigerians and its partners across Africa.
“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 read.
The company confirmed that over 3,000 Nigerians are currently employed at the refinery, adding that only a small number of staff were affected by the exercise.
It also revealed that fresh recruitment is ongoing through graduate trainee programmes and experienced hire processes.
On workers’ rights, the refinery reaffirmed its adherence to global labour standards.
“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,” the management stated.
The refinery further pledged to maintain transparency and accountability while working closely with regulators and employees.
“The Dangote 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,” the statement added.
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery, located in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, is one of Africa’s largest industrial projects and is expected to play a key role in boosting Nigeria’s domestic refining capacity.
