The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has called on the newly elected President of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Dr. Salimon Oladiti, to lead efforts aimed at reviving and fully activating Nigeria’s state-owned refineries.
In a statement, PETROAN’s National President, Dr. Billy Gillis-Harry, stressed that bringing the government refineries back to full operation would create healthy competition in the downstream petroleum sector, discourage monopoly, generate more jobs, and support broader economic growth.
“Functional refineries will strengthen Nigeria’s energy security and greatly reduce our reliance on imported petroleum products,” Dr. Gillis-Harry said.
The association also encouraged the new NUPENG leadership to build a strong and cooperative relationship with the Dangote Refinery.
According to PETROAN, close collaboration between labour unions and major refinery operators is vital for maintaining stability, ensuring fair market practices, and driving the overall progress of the country’s oil and gas industry.
Dr. Gillis-Harry described the emergence of Comrade Oladiti as a positive step that signals continuity, unity, and stronger partnership among stakeholders in the sector.
He expressed confidence that under the new leadership, NUPENG would continue to promote industrial peace, protect workers’ interests, and work closely with operators to advance national development.
The PETROAN chief also praised the outgoing NUPENG President, Comrade Williams Akporeha, for his achievements during his tenure.
These include better staff welfare, salary increases, the completion of the union’s national headquarters, and the maintenance of a stable industrial environment.
PETROAN reaffirmed its commitment to continued partnership with NUPENG for the growth and efficiency of Nigeria’s petroleum industry.
