NARTO Backs NUPENG’s Strike Action Against Dangote Refinery

The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) has declared full support for the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) in its planned shutdown of petrol distribution nationwide on Monday, September 8, over a dispute with Dangote Refinery.

NARTO’s National President, Yusuf Lawal Othman, made the position known in a statement issued on Sunday. The declaration follows NUPENG’s directive to its members to withdraw services in protest against what it described as anti-labour practices by Dangote Refinery.

According to reports, the refinery intends to introduce 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks, a move NUPENG argues would sideline its existing drivers. In solidarity, NARTO has rejected what it calls Dangote’s attempt to dominate petroleum distribution in the downstream sector, warning that the plan could push thousands of independent transporters out of business.

“With over 30,000 trucks operated nationwide, employing thousands of drivers, assistants, and service providers, our members form the backbone of petroleum distribution in Nigeria” the association stated. “These operations sustain millions of dependants and are supported by financial commitments from local and international banks, as well as marketers and depot owners.”

NARTO described the Dangote initiative as “monopolistic and unsustainable” adding that it threatens jobs, national security, and the broader Nigerian economy. The association has therefore called on the Federal Government, its relevant ministries and agencies, the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the Dangote Group to urgently establish a platform for meaningful dialogue among stakeholders.

It stressed that its collective action is not against industrial investment but against practices that could erode fair competition and endanger the welfare of millions of Nigerians who depend on the petroleum transport and distribution sector.