NUPENG sounds warning on rising unemployment, erosion of employee entitlements

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, has expressed deep concerns over the rising number of job losses and erosion of workers' rights in the oil and gas industry, according to NUPENG President, Prince Williams Akporeha.

n

Prince Akporeha, in his valedictory speech at the union's 6th Quadrennial Delegates Conference in Lagos, highlighted the far-reaching consequences of industry reforms, particularly for workers in the informal sector who are struggling to cope with economic hardship.

n

The removal of fuel subsidy has had a significant impact, with many workers losing their livelihoods, as Akporeha noted, saying: "We cannot ignore its reverberating impacts.

n

While acknowledging the need for reforms such as promoting gas as a transition fuel, Akporeha stressed that these changes must not come at the expense of workers, and instead advocated for a just and fair transition.

n

Akporeha appealed to the government to provide support for workers, saying: "This transition must be just and fair, we appeal to the government to reskill, retrain, and fund our members for a just transition".

n

He also raised concerns that workers are being excluded from key policy decisions, stating: "Sadly, the Union was not adequately carried along in planning," which could exacerbate tensions in the industry.

n

The NUPENG President further alleged a surge in unfair labour practices, including attempts to undermine union membership among workers, citing the example of drivers being recruited under restrictive conditions and forced to sign undertakings against union membership.

n

Prince Akporeha described this as a direct violation of the Constitution, the Labour Act, and international labour standards, and reaffirmed the union's commitment to protecting workers' rights, saying: "NUPENG remains resolute on this matter."

n

Akporeha warned of a growing climate of insecurity and economic strain affecting members nationwide, with incidents of petroleum truck hijacking and kidnapping on the rise, and members having to spend more to secure their businesses.

n

Deteriorating road conditions are also compounding the challenges faced by workers, with many economic roads remaining in impassable conditions, making it difficult for members to distribute petroleum products across the country.

n

Despite the challenges, Akporeha highlighted the achievements of his administration, including improved welfare packages, expanded union branches, and infrastructure development, saying: "I came, I saw, and together we conquered—not for personal glory, but for the dignity of every man and woman who powers this nation."

n

With a strong call to action, Akporeha declared: "Justice and power must always rest with the working class, protecting jobs and upholding workers' rights must remain central to all reforms in the oil and gas sector."