Newly elected President of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Salimon Oladiti, has declared that improving workers’ welfare and protecting members’ rights will remain the cardinal focus of his administration.

Oladiti made the pledge at the union’s 6th Quadrennial Delegates Conference held in Lagos, where he and 15 other national officers emerged unopposed for a four-year tenure.

He assured members that his leadership would prioritise constructive engagement with employers across the oil and gas sector to secure better conditions of service.

“Members’ rights and welfare will remain paramount under this administration. We are committed to strengthening the union and upholding the dignity of labour,” he said.

He further pledged collaboration with government, employers and other stakeholders to enhance the economy while advancing workers’ interests.

As part of efforts to foster unity, Oladiti disclosed plans to set up a truth and reconciliation committee and maintain close ties with past leaders of the union.

The new president also commended his predecessor, Williams Akporeha, for what he described as landmark achievements, including improved remuneration, establishment of a new national secretariat, and introduction of health and life insurance schemes for staff and tanker drivers.

FG urges continuity, industrial harmony

In his goodwill message, Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, urged the new leadership to build on the achievements of the outgoing administration and sustain industrial peace in the sector.

Represented by the Director of Trade Union Services and Industrial Relations, Falonipe Amos, the minister highlighted the cordial relationship between NUPENG and operators across the oil and gas value chain.

He advised the new executives to embrace dialogue rather than confrontation in pursuing workers’ demands.

“The Federal Government recognises the vital role of NUPENG in national development. The outgoing leadership demonstrated that constructive engagement remains key to industrial harmony,” he said.

Akporeha highlights achievements

In his remarks, outgoing President Williams Akporeha said his administration focused on strengthening staff welfare and promoting industrial stability through strategic engagement.

According to him, the union revitalised its workforce, implemented promotions, reviewed salaries under a renewed collective bargaining agreement, and provided modern working tools.

He described the commissioning of the NUPENG Towers in December 2024 as a major milestone, providing a conducive work environment for staff.

TUC lauds collaboration

President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Festus Osifo, commended Akporeha for fostering strong collaboration between NUPENG and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).

He noted that the synergy between both unions led to improved remuneration for workers, particularly in international oil companies and the national oil firm.

Osifo also dismissed concerns over job losses following recent divestments in the upstream sector, stating that no member of either union was affected.

He assured the new NUPENG leadership of continued cooperation in advancing workers’ welfare and sustaining industrial harmony in the industry.