The management of Dangote Petroleum Refinery has dismissed reports that it embarked on a mass layoff, clarifying that only a small number of employees were affected during a recent reorganisation within the facility.
In a statement issued on Friday, the company explained that the move was not arbitrary but became necessary to curb repeated acts of sabotage that posed safety risks and disrupted operations.
“The Dangote Petroleum Refinery wishes to clarify recent reports concerning the ongoing reorganization within its facility. 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 company said the restructuring was part of efforts to strengthen internal systems and ensure the long-term stability of what it described as a strategic national asset.
“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,” it added.
The management further noted that the refinery still retains a large workforce, stating: “Over 3,000 Nigerians continue to work actively in our Petroleum Refinery at present. 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.”
While acknowledging ongoing disputes with petroleum unions over workers’ rights, the company stressed its adherence to global labour standards.
“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,” it said.
