By Hosea Parah, Abuja

The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has welcomed the recent leadership transition within the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), describing it as a significant boost for Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.

In a statement released on April 26, 2026, the association congratulated Salimon Oladiti on his emergence as NUPENG president following the union’s delegate election held in Lagos on April 24. PETROAN noted that his victory reflects the strong backing and confidence of members across the country.

National President of PETROAN, Billy Gillis-Harry, described the transition as a consolidation of progress in the petroleum industry. He said the new leadership represents continuity, unity, and a renewed drive for collaboration among stakeholders.

The association also paid tribute to the outgoing president, Williams Akporeha, commending his tenure for notable achievements, including improved worker welfare, salary increases, infrastructure development, and the maintenance of industrial peace.

PETROAN expressed confidence that under Oladiti’s leadership, the welfare of petroleum workers would be further enhanced, while stakeholder engagement would play a stronger role in advancing national development.

It further urged the new NUPENG leadership to champion the revival and full operation of Nigeria’s government-owned refineries, stressing that functional refineries would encourage healthy competition, reduce dependence on fuel imports, strengthen energy security, and generate employment opportunities.

The association also emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between organised labour and major industry operators, particularly the Dangote Refinery, to promote stability and ensure fair practices within the sector.

Reaffirming its commitment to partnership, PETROAN said it remains confident that NUPENG under its new leadership will continue to foster industrial harmony and safeguard the interests of workers and operators in the downstream petroleum industry.