FG Moves to Avert PETROAN Strike Over Dangote Refinery Monopoly

The Federal Government is engaging oil industry stakeholders in a bid to avert a nationwide strike threatened by the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN).

PETROAN’s National President, Billy Gillis-Harry, raised the alarm during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Monday, warning that the move was necessary to protect the role of multiple players in the downstream sector.

Gillis-Harry explained that the looming strike was triggered by concerns about a purported monopoly by the Dangote Refinery, which he claimed seeks to dominate all tiers of the petroleum value chain.

“From June, we started getting fillers of the Dangote Refinery wanting to involve itself in all the tiers of the business, from refining, to storage, to logistics, and then possibly finally the retail outlets,” he said.

He stressed that PETROAN’s demand is for a clearly defined role for all stakeholders in the industry, ensuring efficiency and fair participation.

The petroleum downstream sector is made up of multiple players, including:

• Major marketers

• Depot operators

• Independent marketers

• PETROAN

• NUPENG (Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers)

• NARTO (National Association of Road Transport Owners)

Gillis-Harry reminded that these groups have operated retail outlets for over 50 years, underscoring the need to protect their contributions.

According to PETROAN, the Federal Government is now working with stakeholders to address grievances and prevent a strike that could disrupt nationwide fuel distribution and supply chains.

If unresolved, the strike could have nationwide implications for fuel availability, adding strain to an already volatile energy market. The concerns also spotlight the delicate balance between encouraging private investment and preventing monopolistic practices.