Dangote Refinery: Staff Cuts Needed to Tackle Safety, Sabotage Threats
Abiodun folarin
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has defended its ongoing reorganisation, insisting the exercise is not arbitrary but necessary to protect the multi-billion-dollar facility from repeated sabotage and safety risks.
In a statement, the refinery said the decision was taken in the best interest of the plant after “intermittent cases of sabotage in various units” threatened human lives and disrupted operations.
“We remain vigilant to our internal systems and vulnerabilities to ensure the long-term stability of this strategic national asset,” the statement noted. “It is imperative to protect the refinery for the benefit of Nigerians, our partners across Africa, and the thousands whose livelihoods depend on it.”
The refinery stressed that over 3,000 Nigerians remain in active employment, with only a small number affected by the shake-up. It added that fresh Nigerian talent is continually being recruited through graduate trainee and experienced hire programmes.
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Reaffirming its respect for workers’ rights, the refinery maintained that staff are free to decide whether or not to join a union.
“The Dangote Petroleum Refinery exists to serve Nigerians, strengthen Africa’s energy independence, and create sustainable jobs. We remain committed to safety, transparency, and accountability,” it said.
