The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) has expressed support for the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) in their decision to halt petrol distribution in Nigeria on Monday, September 8th, due to a dispute with Dangote Refinery.
Yusuf Lawal Othman, the national president of NARTO, confirmed this alignment with NUPENG in a statement released on Sunday. NUPENG had instructed its members to cease operations on Monday following alleged anti-labour actions by Dangote Refinery.
Dangote Refinery’s plan to introduce 4,000 compressed natural gas trucks, potentially displacing current drivers associated with NUPENG, prompted this reaction from NARTO, expressing solidarity with NUPENG’s stance.
NARTO strongly opposes Dangote Refinery’s proposed distribution model for petroleum products in the downstream oil and gas sector, viewing it as a deliberate move to oust numerous independent transporters.
NARTO urged the federal government and Dangote Refinery to engage in constructive discussions with relevant stakeholders to address the concerns raised.
The association highlighted the vital role played by independent transporters in Nigeria’s petroleum distribution network, emphasizing the potential impact on jobs and the economy if their operations are jeopardized by monopolistic practices.
NARTO called upon various governmental bodies, the National Security Adviser’s office, and the Dangote Group to initiate a dialogue that ensures fair competition, protects the welfare of those dependent on the sector, and safeguards national interests.
Reaffirming its support for NUPENG, NARTO clarified that their collective efforts aim to challenge monopolistic actions that could undermine jobs, national security, and the broader Nigerian economy, rather than hinder genuine investment and industrial progress.
