The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has defended its recent reorganisation, which resulted in the dismissal of some staff members, saying the move was a deliberate effort to curb sabotage, safeguard operations, and maintain safety standards at the multibillion-dollar facility.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by the management, the refinery dismissed suggestions that the exercise was arbitrary. Instead, it said the restructuring was essential to protecting the refinery from repeated acts of sabotage that had created safety concerns and disrupted operations.
“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. “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.”
‘Few Workers Affected’
The company stressed that the impact of the layoffs was minimal compared to the overall workforce. It explained that more than 3,000 Nigerians are actively employed at the refinery and that only “a very small” number of workers were affected by the shake-up.
“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.”
The management also highlighted its ongoing recruitment initiatives, noting that it continues to engage Nigerian talent through graduate trainee schemes and experienced hire processes, reinforcing the refinery’s role as one of the country’s biggest job providers in the energy sector.
‘Workers’ Right’
The statement further reaffirmed the refinery’s adherence to internationally accepted labour standards, particularly the right of workers to freely choose whether or not to join unions.
“Our commitment to workers’ rights is unwavering,” the management said. “The Dangote Petroleum Refinery exists to serve Nigerians, to strengthen Africa’s energy independence, and to create decent, sustainable jobs. We will continue to work in partnership with our employees, regulators, and stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of safety, transparency, and accountability.”
What you should know
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery, one of Africa’s most strategic energy projects, has confirmed that its recent layoffs targeted only a small fraction of its workforce.
Management says the decision was driven by sabotage concerns and safety risks. With over 3,000 Nigerians employed, the refinery insists its commitment to workers’ rights remains strong.
