Dangote Refinery Admits Layoffs, Says Only a Few Workers Affected
Dangote Refinery Admits Layoffs, Says Only a Few Workers Affected
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has confirmed that some workers were laid off, stating that “only a small number were affected” as part of a reorganisation exercise.
In a statement issued on Friday, the refinery addressed reports about the “ongoing restructuring within its facility,” explaining that the move was necessary to protect the plant from recurring acts of sabotage which, it said, had raised safety concerns and disrupted operational efficiency.
The company also stressed that operations remain robust, noting that “over 3,000 Nigerians are currently employed and actively working at the Petroleum Refinery.”
“Only a very small number of staff were affected, as we continue to recruit Nigerian talent through our various graduate trainee programmes and experienced hire recruitment process.”
The refinery said the exercise is not arbitrary, stressing that the decision was taken in the best interest of the refinery.
The statement said the move was a result of intermittent cases of sabotage in the various units of the refinery, with dire consequences on human life and related safety concerns.
“We remain vigilant to our internal systems and vulnerabilities to ensure the long-term stability of this strategic national asset,” the company said.
“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.
“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 refinery said it exists to serve Nigerians, to strengthen Africa’s energy independence, and to create decent, sustainable jobs.
The organisation promised to continue to work in collaboration with its employees, regulators, and stakeholders “to uphold the highest standards of safety, transparency, and accountability”.
Earlier on Friday, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) said the refinery laid off some of its staff members, noting that the group was working to “resolve” the issue.
