The management of Dangote Petroleum Refinery has clarified that its ongoing reorganisation exercise is aimed at addressing repeated acts of sabotage and ensuring the long-term safety and stability of the multibillion-dollar facility.
In a statement issued on Friday, the company stressed that the decision was not arbitrary but necessary to protect the refinery from incidents that posed serious safety risks and hampered operational efficiency.
“The decision was taken in the best interest of the refinery as a result of intermittent cases of sabotage in various units, with dire consequences on human life and related safety concerns,” the statement read.
Dangote Refinery emphasised that the move was designed to safeguard the strategic national asset, which it described as vital not only to Nigerians but also to partners across Africa and the thousands of workers whose livelihoods depend on it.
Currently, over 3,000 Nigerians are employed at the facility, the company disclosed, adding that only a small number of staff were affected by the reorganisation. Recruitment is ongoing through graduate trainee programmes and experienced hire processes, it said.
The management also reaffirmed its respect for labour rights, noting that workers were free to decide whether or not to join a union.
“The Dangote Petroleum Refinery exists to serve Nigerians, to strengthen Africa’s energy independence, and to create decent, sustainable jobs. We will continue to uphold the highest standards of safety, transparency, and accountability,” the statement added.
The company pledged to continue working with employees, regulators, and stakeholders to ensure the refinery achieves its mission as a cornerstone of Africa’s energy sector.