Petroleum Station Workers (PSWs) have called for improved working conditions, better pay, and recognition under the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG). The workers expressed their concerns at a press conference in Kaduna on Thursday.
Ibrahim Zango, the spokesperson for the PSWs, lamented the “excessive maltreatment, poor salaries, and neglect” faced by workers in the sector. He highlighted the dangers they face, such as exposure to toxic environments and fire hazards, without adequate healthcare.
The PSWs revealed that their monthly salaries range from a meagre N10,000 to N20,000, forcing some to engage in unethical practices to make ends meet. “With such low wages, it is no surprise that some workers resort to cutting corners,” Zango said.
To address these issues, the PSWs are demanding free, fair, and credible elections to establish leadership at all levels, as well as recognition and organisation under NUPENG. “We will not relent in our efforts to have a voice that can speak for all our members across the country,” Zango vowed.
The PSWs’ call for better working conditions comes amidst numerous challenges facing the petroleum sector, including fuel scarcity and price hikes.