By Abiola Olawale
Dangote Petroleum Refinery company, owned by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, is set to proceed with the roll-out of over 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks today, Monday, September 15, 2025.
The company said the initiative is part of a massive N720 billion investment in logistics infrastructure that aims to streamline fuel distribution across the country.
Dangote Group officials also confirmed that the first batch of CNG trucks will begin operations immediately with the transportion of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel directly to filling stations, manufacturers, and other bulk consumers nationwide.
The refinery explained that the direct distribution model is expected to reduce logistics costs, minimize fuel scarcity risks, and create thousands of new jobs.
This comes after NUPENG, representing petroleum tanker drivers, has been locked in a heated dispute with Dangote refinery since early September.
Recall that the union suspended a planned nationwide strike on September 10, following government-mediated talks, but accusations resurfaced just days later.
At the core of the conflict is NUPENG’s claim that Dangote refinery is barring drivers of the new CNG trucks from joining the union.
According to the Union, this is a violation of the constitutional rights to freedom of association under Section 40 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution and international labor standards as ratified by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
Union leaders, including National President Williams Akporeha and General Secretary Afolabi Olawale, alleged that Sayyu Aliu Dantata—a cousin of Dangote Group Chairman, Dangote and a key figure in related trucking operations—instructed drivers to strip off NUPENG stickers from vehicles, sign undertakings renouncing membership of the union.
In response, Dangote Refinery has denied the allegations, describing them as “entirely unfounded.” The company also reaffirmed its support for labor rights. “Employees are free to affiliate with any recognized trade union, and assertions that drivers are compelled to waive rights are false,” the company stated.
