Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers Elects New President Amid Mounting Industry Challenges

Leadership transition signals renewed focus on workers’ welfare and sector stability

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By Edith Adale | Lagos, Nigeria

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers has elected a new national president Salimon Akanni Oladiti, to lead the influential labour body at a time of heightened uncertainty in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. The transition comes as the industry grapples with persistent fuel supply concerns, regulatory reforms, and mounting pressure on workers’ welfare.

The emergence of new leadership within NUPENG marks a significant development in Nigeria’s petroleum labour landscape, where the union plays a central role in safeguarding the interests of thousands of workers across upstream, midstream, and downstream operations.

Salimon Akanni Oladiti, speaking after the election, pledged to prioritize improved welfare packages, job security, and safer working conditions for members, while also committing to constructive engagement with both government authorities and private sector operators. He emphasized the need for dialogue-driven solutions to industrial disputes, noting that stability in the sector is critical not only for workers but for the broader national economy.

MUHAMMED Dangyadi, the Minister of Labour and Employment, urged new NUPENG president, Salimon Akanni Oladiti, to sustain achievements of predecessor, Williams Akporeha.

Dangyadi gave the charge on Sunday in a goodwill message at the union’s sixth Quadrennial Delegates Conference in Lagos.

Represented by TUSIR Director, Mr Falonipe Amos, Director, Trade Union Services and Industrial Relations, he recalled cordial relations between NUPENG and stakeholders across the oil and gas value chain.

He urged the leadership to sustain industrial harmony by prioritising dialogue in addressing labour issues.

“The Federal Government values NUPENG’s contributions to national development.

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“Akporeha’s commitment to constructive dialogue while advancing workers’ welfare is exemplary. We urge the incoming executive to take a cue,” he said.

The leadership change comes against the backdrop of ongoing structural adjustments in the oil and gas industry, particularly following the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act, which continues to reshape regulatory frameworks, ownership structures, and operational dynamics. While the reforms aim to attract investment and improve transparency, labour unions have consistently raised concerns over job security, contract staffing, and equitable benefit distribution.

In recent months, Nigeria has faced recurring disruptions in fuel distribution, with supply chain inefficiencies and foreign exchange constraints impacting the availability and pricing of petroleum products. As a key stakeholder, NUPENG’s stance often influences industrial harmony, especially in critical segments such as fuel transportation and depot operations.

Analysts note that the union’s leadership will be expected to navigate complex negotiations involving wage adjustments, subsidy removal impacts, and evolving labour policies. The ability to strike a balance between advocacy and collaboration will likely define the effectiveness of the new administration.

Labour at a Crossroads
Workers in the petroleum sector continue to face significant economic pressures, including rising living costs, fluctuating exchange rates, and uncertainties linked to policy shifts. Industry reforms have also triggered concerns about workforce rationalisation and the increasing reliance on contract labour, issues that remain central to union advocacy.

Call for Strong Leadership
Expectations are high for proactive and strategic leadership within Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers. Stakeholders are calling for sustained engagement with government bodies, regulators, and oil companies to ensure industrial peace, protect workers’ rights, and maintain uninterrupted energy supply across the country.