Filling Station Workers Demand Representation, Decry Neglect by Petroleum Marketers

Filling Station Workers Demand Representation, Decry Neglect by Petroleum Marketers

Filling station workers under the banner of the Frustrated Petrol Station Workers have voiced their discontent over what they describe as long-standing neglect by petroleum marketers. They are now calling for formal organizational representation through affiliation with the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).

Speaking at a press briefing in Kaduna, Mr. Ibrahim Zango, representing the group, expressed frustration over years of unfair treatment, saying the workers’ interests have consistently been overlooked. According to Zango, while NUPENG, petroleum tanker drivers, and independent marketers have structures in place to defend their members, the petrol station workers—comprising pump attendants, security personnel, cleaners, and others—are left unprotected.

Zango highlighted the crucial role these workers play in the petroleum value chain, adding that it is overdue for them to have a national body to oversee their affairs and protect their rights. “If you consider the number of filling stations across Nigeria, each employing around 20 workers, our contribution to the sector’s development becomes clear,” he said.

Despite their significant role, Zango said, filling station workers face severe maltreatment, including poor wages, arbitrary dismissals, and lack of healthcare. In Northern Nigeria, for instance, workers for independent marketers earn between N10,000 and N15,000 monthly, while those with major marketers earn up to N20,000. He said this financial strain often drives some workers to unethical practices to survive.

He further condemned the dismissal of workers without benefits, especially those who have served for many years but are laid off due to age or illness. “The dangerous nature of our work, involving exposure to toxic environments and fire hazards, often goes unacknowledged by marketers, with few offering healthcare support when injuries occur,” Zango said.

He called on NUPENG to organize elections for petrol station workers at the national, state, and local levels, urging the union to ensure the workers’ voices are heard in every corner of the country.

“We cannot remain silent while our members continue to suffer after dedicating their productive years to this work. We are determined to create a system that protects and uplifts filling station workers across Nigeria,” Zango concluded.