The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has clarified reports surrounding its ongoing reorganisation exercise, stressing that the move is aimed at safeguarding operations and protecting workers’ rights in the face of repeated sabotage.
In a statement released on Friday, September 26, 2025, management explained that the decision was taken to address security breaches within various refinery units, which have raised safety concerns and threatened operational efficiency.
“This exercise is not arbitrary. It has become necessary to safeguard the refinery from repeated acts of sabotage that have raised safety concerns and affected operational efficiency,” the statement read.
It added, “The foregoing decision was taken in the best interest of the Refinery as a result of intermittent cases of sabotage in the various units of the Refinery with dire consequences on human life and related safety concerns.”
The company emphasised that its workforce remains strong, with over 3,000 Nigerians actively employed at the refinery. It added that only a very small number of staff were affected by the exercise, while recruitment continues through graduate trainee programmes and experienced hire processes.
Reassuring stakeholders of its commitment to internationally recognised labour standards, the refinery reiterated its support for workers’ rights, including the freedom to decide whether or not to join a union.
“The Dangote Petroleum Refinery exists to serve Nigerians, to strengthen Africa’s energy independence, and to create decent, sustainable jobs,” management said. “We will continue to work in partnership with our employees, regulators and stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of safety, transparency, and accountability.”
The refinery, which is one of Africa’s most strategic energy assets, reaffirmed its pledge to protect both its infrastructure and workforce while ensuring the sustainable development of the continent’s energy sector.
Melissa Enoch
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