By Bayo Wahab

Aliko Dangote, the President of Dangote Group, has announced the rollout of his refinery’s 4,000 CNG-powered trucks amid allegations of monopoly by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas (NUPENG).

Dangote announced the development on Monday, at a press conference, which took place at the Dangote Industries Free Zone, Ibeju Lekki, to commemorate the first anniversary of the refinery’s petrol production.

According to him, the trucks will create at least 24,000 jobs across Nigeria.

NUPENG had earlier accused Dangote Refinery of planning to crush the activities of Petroleum Truck Drivers with its direct petrol distribution initiative.

The union described the move as a ‘Greek gift,’ warning Nigerians against the offer of free nationwide delivery of petroleum products by the refinery to dispensing stations.

Reacting to the claim, Dangote said the deployment of his refinery’s CNG-powered trucks, contrary to NUPENG’s allegation, is not intended to displace tanker drivers, but aimed at generating thousands of new employment opportunities.

“We have not displaced any jobs; we are creating many more. The CNG trucks will not be operated by robots. Our employees earn salaries three times the minimum wage. Our drivers receive a living wage, life insurance, health insurance covering themselves, their spouses, and up to four children, as well as a lifelong pension. We are not only employing drivers but also mechanics, fleet managers, and other professionals to support the CNG fleet.”

Dangote urged other industry players to set up oil refining plants saying “he doesn’t want to be a monopoly.”

On NUPENG’s claim that Dangote Refinery denied its workers the right to enjoy freedom of association and unionisation, the industrialist clarified that while the company respects trade unions, membership is a personal choice for each driver.

The conference followed the recent announcement that the refinery is ready to begin free distribution of petrol to stations at a reduced price.

While responding to questions, Dangote maintained that the first batch of CNG-powered trucks has begun taking turns at the gantry to load petroleum products.

The industrialist was accompanied to the conference by Group Executive Director, Commercial Operations, Dangote Industries Limited, Fatima Aliko Dangote; Vice President, Oil and Gas, DIL, Devakumar Edwin; President/Chief Executive, Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote; and Chairman, MRS Oil Nigeria Plc, Sayyu Dantata.

Vanguard News