By: Odeh Favour
NNPCL Support Staff Down Tools Across Refineries, Demand Immediate Pay Implementation
Support staff across Nigeria’s three state-owned refineries have commenced a peaceful protest to vent their frustration over poor wages, non-payment of statutory benefits, and delayed implementation of a new salary structure, according to a joint statement issued by workers’ representatives.
The affected workers belong to the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC), Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC), and the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC).
According to them, they have endured harsh working conditions for over ten years despite repeated promises by management to improve their welfare.
The staff disclosed that they are completely denied essential statutory benefits, including housing, transport, meal, hazard, and leave allowances, alongside medical benefits, insurance cover, and pensions.
They noted that their current monthly earnings range between ₦90,000 and ₦165,000, describing it as grossly inadequate given today’s economic realities and far below the Federal Government’s minimum wage framework.
While acknowledging that they initially welcomed reports indicating that the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bashir Bayo Ojulari, had approved a new salary structure effective October 1, 2026, the workers expressed deep worry over rising indications that implementation might be postponed to January 2027.
“Another delay after more than a decade of waiting is unacceptable,” the workers stated, insisting on immediate implementation from October 1 or an official, transparent explanation for any proposed postponement.
The workers further revealed they are aware of restructuring plans at the facilities aimed at downsizing about 40 percent of the workforce.
They demanded full transparency on the plan, stressing that personnel who have dedicated years of service to the company must not be laid off without proper compensation.
To safeguard affected employees, the workers demanded a comprehensive severance package for all existing support staff affected by any restructuring before management decides on retaining or re-engaging workers under fresh employment terms with clearly defined salaries, benefits, and conditions of service.
In addition, they demanded a documented Condition of Service and an immediate end to the denial of statutory benefits.
The staff appealed directly to the NNPCL GCEO to ensure that approved directives are fully implemented and not stalled by administrative bottlenecks.
Assuring the public, the workers stated that the protest would remain peaceful, orderly, and lawful, while calling on security agencies present to maintain professionalism throughout.
