Author - PROSPER AKRAI

GOODWILL MESSAGE FROM NUPENG TO GREAT NIGERIAN WORKERS ON THE OCCASION OF 2024 WORKERS’ DAY CELEBRATION

1st May, 2024
The President and General Secretary on behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC) and the entire rank and file members of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), bring you warm fraternal greetings on this auspicious occasion of 2024 Worker’s Day, which is the annual celebration of workers' resilience, dedication, and contribution to the progress of our great nation.
The leadership of our great Union first of all wishes to express our sympathy and solidarity to Nigerian working people as we empathize with them over the harrowing socio-economic situation of our dear Country. We know your pains as we share in them but at the same time, we salute your courage and indomitable spirit. You are indeed a rare gem of humankind.
Worker’s Day generally serves as a reminder of the significant role that workers play in the growth and development of our country. And we are very pleased and grateful that this day is another amazing opportunity to honour Nigerian workers for their unwavering commitment, professionalism, and sacrifices they make daily to keep various sectors of the economy running smoothly, including the petroleum and natural gas industry.
We profoundly and specifically salute the unwavering dedication, resilience, and indomitable spirit of Nigeria Oil and Gas Workers and the Nigerian working people generally in the face of various adversities besieging our nation.
This past year has been particularly challenging for all of us, as we navigated through the global economic fluctuations, and volatile market conditions. Despite these obstacles, you have shown extraordinary strength and commitment to fulfilling your duties and responsibilities.
The year 2024 was also ushered in by various unprecedented circumstances and hardships, including insecurity and inflation that has tested our collective strength and resilience.
However, through your unwavering dedication, tolerance and sacrifices, we shall surely navigate these obstacles and come out victorious in pursuit of socio-economic growth of our nation's economy.
Once again, we commend all members of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry (Workers and Managements), for their tireless efforts to ensure efficient and sustainable supply of petroleum products to offices and factories, to keep the Wheels of our nation’s economy running and our homes/social places comfortable during these trying times. Your selflessness and sacrifices are true confirmation of your professionalism and dedication to the services of the people of Nigeria.
As we commemorate this Worker’s Day, let us strengthen our unity and solidarity, which underlines the essence of the labour movement. Together, we shall overcome one day!!
We extend our gratitude to the Government, our esteemed Partners/Stakeholders in the Industry, for their continuous support and collaboration. It is through these collective efforts that we can build a better Nigeria for all.
On behalf of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), we wish you all a joyous and rewarding Worker’s Day Celebration.
Our Solidarity remains Constant for the Union makes Us Strong!!
Happy 2024 Worker’s Day!
Signed:
COMRADE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA         COMRADE AFOLABI OLAWALE
National President                                                   General Secretary

NUPENG COMMEMORATES THE INTERNATIONAL WORKER’S MEMORIAL DAY 2024

NUPENG HONOURS THE SACRIFICES OF WORKERS WHO WERE INJURED OR LOST THEIR LIVES IN THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY

28th April, 2024.

On this solemn occasion, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) pays tribute to the brave men and women who have suffered injury or lost their lives in the line of duty. We recommit ourselves to the fight for safer working conditions, a sustainable environment, and a just energy future for all.

NUPENG AND EDGE FACILITY MANAGERS- SIGN LANDMARK CONTRACT TO MANAGE THE IMPRESSIVE NUPENG TOWER.

Monday 18th March 2024.By Suleiman Pema
The President, Comrade (Prince) Williams Akporeha, General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, alongside the NUPENG Tower Committee led by - the National Treasurer, Comrade Alex Agwanwor, Deputy President Prince Moses, Comrade Ogbodo Thompson, National Auditor, Comrade Modupe Victoria Otegbayo, VP Lagos Zone, Comrade Vincent Ukhuakhua, AGS F&A, welcomed Edge Facility Managers to the National Secretariat Annex of the Union.
The event marked the official partnership between the two organizations for the management of the newly constructed NUPENG Tower.
Edge Facility Managers were led by Mr. Chudi Ubosi, Board member and Peju Fatuyi, CEO.
Edge FM renowned for their expertise in facilities management, were the perfect choice to ensure the smooth operation and maintenance of this iconic structure of the Union. With their shared vision and commitment to excellence, the contract signing ceremony marked a significant milestone in the future of NUPENG and Edge FM, heralding a magnificent journey towards success and prosperity for both organizations.
The NUPENG Tower would now thrive under Edge’s meticulous care.

Nigerians Bid Farewell to NUPENG former General Secretary, Late Comrade (Chief) Frank Ovie Kokori

Friday 8th March, 2024

Funeral Rites Held in Grand Style in Ovu-inland, Ethiope East LGA, Delta State.

 

In a show of solidarity and deep reverence, Nigerians from all walks of life gathered at the country home of the late Comrade (Chief) Frank Ovie Kokori in Ovu-inland, Ethiope East LGA Delta State, to pay their final respects to the former General Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).

Leading the NUPENG delegation was Comrade Williams Akporeha, President of NUPENG, Comrade Afolabi Olawale, General Secretary of the Union, alongside the NUPENG National Executive Council (NEC), NUPENG Elders, NUPENG Branch Chairmen/Secretaries, rank and file, and staff of the Union.

His Excellency Rt.Hon. Sheriff Francis O. Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State led the Delta State delegation ably supported by Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Speaker, DSHA. Also in attendance was Mr. Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) and leader of the Federal Government delegation to the funeral.

The ceremony, reminiscent of a carnival, sought to honour the illustrious career and immense contributions of the late Comrade (Chief) Frank Ovie Kokori to the Labour Movement, pro-democracy activism, politics and humanity.

   

The event commenced with a somber funeral church service at St. James Anglican Church, Oviore-Ovu, Ethiope East LGA, Delta State. Immediately after the funeral church service, the late labour icon was interred at his residence 20, Odukuma Street, Ovu-Inland, Ethiope East LGA, Delta State.

 

Mourners were hosted to a reception/entertainment at Ovu Grammar school- Ovu-Inland, were they reflected on the extraordinary life and legacy of Comrade Frank Ovie Kokori, whose unwavering dedication to the rights and welfare of workers has left an indelible impact on the Nigerian labour landscape.

 

Among the dignitaries present at the reception were the family of the late elder statesman, representatives of the NNPCL, NEPL, NMDPRA, NUPRC, NLC, PENGASSAN, Traditional rulers and captains of industry were also in attendance, symbolizing the wide-ranging influence and respect that Comrade Frank Ovie Kokori enjoyed across various sectors.

Comrade Kokori's passing marks the end of an era and leaves a void in Nigeria's labour movement that will be challenging to fill. However, his advocacy for justice, equity, and the rights of workers will continue to inspire future generations of union leaders and activists to fight for a fair and inclusive society.

As Nigerians bid a final farewell to Comrade Chief Frank Ovie Kokori, his memory will forever remain a source of inspiration and a reminder of the significant strides that can be achieved through unwavering commitment to a cause. May his soul rest in eternal peace with the Lord.

 

By Comrade Suleiman Pema -POS (Research & Public Affairs).

NUPENG JOINS FAMILY, FRIENDS, NEIGHBOURS, CLASSMATES AND COLLEAGUES TO PAY LAST RESPECTS TO COMRADE ROSEMARY MOHOGBONE WILKEY

NUPENG JOINS FAMILY, FRIENDS, NEIGHBOURS, CLASSMATES AND COLLEAGUES TO PAY LAST RESPECTS TO COMRADE ROSEMARY MOHOGBONE WILKEY, A VETERAN JOURNALIST AND FRIEND OF THE UNION - BY COMRADE SULEIMAN PEMA

Tuesday, 27th February, 2024 The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) joins many other mourners to pay their last respects to Rosemary Wilkey, who died on January 25th, 2024, after a reported brief illness. Rose Wilkey was a renowned Senior correspondent with the Africa Independent Television (AIT) who dedicated her life to the pursuit of truth, justice, workers’ rights, and improvement in the welfare of the working class for over two decades. She was also a close ally of NUPENG and supported the struggles for workers' rights and welfare. A delegation of NUPENG led by Comrade Otite Onohwohwo, Deputy General Secretary (Special Duties), attended a service of songs for the deceased at the New Estate Baptist Church, Surulere, Lagos. They expressed their condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the late Rosemary Wilkey and praised her for her professionalism, courage, and integrity. The NUPENG delegation to the Service of Songs programme also included Comrade Suleiman Pema (POS - Research & Affairs), Comrade Olivet Aberare (SOS - Legal) and Comrade Prosper Akrai (SOS - Admin). Earlier, on Thursday, 22nd of February, 2024, the leadership of the Union paid tribute to the late beacon of truth. May the soul of Rosemary Wilkey Rest In Peace with the Lord.

COURTESY VISIT BY TOTALENERGIES IN-HOUSE BRANCH TO NUPENG NATIONAL SECRETARIAT

Monday, 29th January, 2024

The leadership of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) led by Comrade Williams Akporeha, Comrade Afolabi Olawale, President and General Secretary respectively, earlier today received in audience leadership of TotalEnergies In-house Branch of NUPENG on a courtesy visit to the National Secretariat.

The TotalEnergies In-house Branch of NUPENG were led by Comrade Lucky Ogure and Comrade Anosike Brendan, Branch Chairman and Secretary respectively.

Also present during the visit were Comrade Anthony Chukwu (DGS - F&A), Comrade Onohwohwo Otite (DGS -Special Duties).

Comrade Suleiman Pema POS (R&Pub. Affairs)

COURTESY VISIT BY THE MANAGEMENT OF NLNG TO NUPENG NATIONAL SECRETARIAT

Monday, 29th January, 2024

The leadership of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) led by Comrade (Prince) Williams Akporeha, Comrade Afolabi Olawale, General Secretary, and Comrade Solomon Kilanko, Deputy President respectively, earlier today received in audience representatives of the Management of Nigeria Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG) led by Mr. Paul Bakare (Employee Industrial Relations Manager) and Mr. Jude Ozenua (Employee Industrial Relations) to the National Secretariat on a courtesy visit to the National Secretariat.

Also present during the visit were Comrade Anthony Chukwu, DGS (F&A), Comrade Onohwohwo Otite, DGS (Special Duties), Comrade Suleiman Pema, POS R&Pub. Affairs. and Comrade Olivet Aberare, SOS Legal & Gender.

Discussions were centered around the promotion of industrial peace and harmony.

Comrade Suleiman Pema POS (R&Pub. Affairs)

NUPENG ELDERS CONSULTATIVE FORUM/NATIONAL ADMINISTRATIVE COUNCIL MEETING, HELD AT PHOLAX HOTEL AND SUITES, IKEJA LAGOS

Friday 26th January 2024.

The President of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) Comrade Williams Akporeha in company of the General Secretary, Comrade Afolabi Olawale and other NAC members of the Union on Friday, 26th January, 2024, convened a meeting of NUPENG Elders Forum/National Administrative Council (NAC) at Pholax Hotel and Suites, Ikeja, Lagos.

NUPENG Elders present at the meeting include Comrade (Hon.) Peter Akpatason, Comrade B.B. Awe, Comrade S.A. Dada, Comrade Joseph Akinlaja, Comrade Joseph Ogbebor, Comrade Isaac Aberare, Comrade Adamu Song, Comrade Fyne face Omeme and Comrade Achese Igwe.

At the start of the meeting, a minute silence was observed in honour of Late Comrade Frank Ovie Kokori. The Elders unanimously praised the exemplary leadership of the union and overall performance in advancing the welfare and interests of its members, the support extended to the family of late Comrade Frank Ovie Kokori towards giving the late elder statesman a befitting burial.

They also commended the leadership of Comrade Williams Akporeha and Comrade Afolabi Olawale for overseeing the commencement and completion of the brand-new befitting Secretariat (NUPENG TOWER) for the Union.

The meeting also condemned in strong unequivocal terms the vicious act of violence meted on the leadership of the union by some disgruntled individuals on the 1st of November, 2023 in Abuja.

The meeting concluded by reaffirming its commitment to the ideals and objectives of the union while still extending an olive branch to the disgruntled individuals.

By Comrade Sulieman Pema Research/Pub. Affairs Department

OFFICIAL LAUNCHING/COMMENCEMENT OF HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME FOR PETROLEUM TANKER DRIVERS ON THE WHEELS

OFFICIAL LAUNCHING/COMMENCEMENT OF HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME FOR PETROLEUM TANKER DRIVERS ON THE WHEELS

By Comrade Suleiman Pema

14th December, 2023

In an atmosphere of pomp and pageantry at the Mobil Truck Park, Apapa Lagos, the entire leadership of our great Union ably led by Comrade Prince Williams Akporeha (President), Comrade Afolabi Olawale (General Secretary), Comrade Augustine Egbon (PTD Branch of NUPENG Chairman), Comrade Alex Agwanwor (NUPENG Treasurer), Comrade Salimon Oladiti (NUPENG Trustee), other NUPENG NEC members, all PTD Zonal leadership, the PTD Branch Technical Adviser, Comrade Joseph Akinlaja and other members of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers all assembled from all over the country for interest of Petroleum Tanker Drivers on the wheels.

Other dignitaries that also graced the occasion include Alhaji Yusuf Lawal Othman (NARTO President), Alhaji Ganiyu Salami (NARTO Deputy President), Mr. Lekan Odusanya (Representing the Management of Mobil Downstream), Representatives of Leadway Health Insurance, Representatives of MOMAN and DAPPMAN, Representatives of NMDPRA, Representatives of the Ministry of Health, as well as the Media were in attendance.

In their various speeches the dignitaries led by NUPENG President, General Secretary, PTD Branch Chairman, NARTO President, and Leadway Health Insurance Representatives, urged the Tanker Drivers to take full advantage of this Health Insurance Scheme and not to wait until they get sick, as the scheme is a full health insurance cover (including ambulance, dental care, surgery, admission and more).

The leadership of the Union stated that, all a Petroleum Tanker Driver on the wheel needs to do to access the Health Insurance Scheme, is simply to tender his/her valid Biometric Identity Card, valid vehicle particulars, Health Scheme Card and a registered Telephone number.

In addition, stickers with detailed information will also be provided which is to be pasted on all registered trucks in case of emergencies as the Union is working closely with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on this scheme.

Furthermore, a list of over 2,000 hospitals will be provided for drivers to access the Health Insurance Scheme nationwide.

As an icing on the cake, in the speech of the General Secretary, he said “each registered Tanker Driver on the wheel will receiving the sum of N30,000 as Welfare package starting from this year 2023. He added that, “what Government is unable to do for us, we should be able to do it for ourselves”.

Petroleum Tanker Drivers on the wheels were also urged to call and complain when they are not well attended to or experience when they are being rendered poor services by the accredited hospitals across the country.

Finally, the leadership of our great Union expressed sincere appreciation to the leadership of NARTO for their unwavering support.

Entertainers were present too at the epoch making event to keep the atmosphere alive.

NUPENG NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL (NEC) MEETING HELD AT NUPENG TOWERS

IN PICTURES:

NUPENG NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL (NEC) MEETING  To the glory of God Almighty, the last NEC meeting of the year 2023, coincidentally became the first official activity of the Union to be convened in the brand new NUPENG Tower edifice. The President, General Secretary and all Council members were in attendance. Wednesday, 13th December, 2023.

OFFICIAL HANDOVER CEREMONY OF THE COMPLETED NUPENG TOWER EDIFICE BY THE CONTRACTORS TO THE LEADERSHIP OF NUPENG

In Pictures:

The President, General Secretary, and National Executive Council members of our great Union were officially handed over the keys to the completed NUPENG Tower edifice, at 9, Jibowu Street, Yaba, Lagos.

In a small ceremony to commemorate the occasion, the President of the Union thanked the Contractors -Telisol Nigeria Ltd for a job well done. He also appreciated the Council members for their support all through and the entire rank and file members of the Union.  He reminded all present that this is just a handover ceremony,  as the official commissioning ceremony of the edifice will take place in April 2024.

The President of the Union, Prince Williams Akporeha led other Council members to cut the ribbon amidst pomp and chants of Solidarity songs.

The leadership was immediately given a guided tour of the brand-new edifice and the world-class facilities inside by the Contractors. The media were also present to capture the occasion.

Wednesday,13th December, 2023.

     

UPDATE ON COMRADE FRANK OVIE KOKORI

The Leadership of NUPENG has been inundated with series of calls and messages with regards to a very misleading news item making rounds on social media purportedly referring to statements made by Chief Frank Ovie Kokori our former General Secretary, on the state of his health and wish to state that the elder statesman has refuted the story credited to him.

NUPENG wish to state that the leadership has been and still in constant touch with our own Frank Ovie Kokori. A quick inquiry from one of his sons who is part of NUPENG leadership revealed that, though the elder statesman is weak due to old age and associated issues, but he is in stable state of mind and responding well to care and treatment from his caregivers and health personnel.

The elder statesman strongly stated to his son that he was misquoted by Writers.

NUPENG wishes to further state here that the state of health of Comrade Frank Ovie Kokori as well other former leaders of the Union are of interest to us and shall continue to give all necessary support within our power without being prompted.

NUPENG LEADERSHIP AT THE SPECIAL DELEGATES’ CONFERENCE OF THE PETROLEUM TANKER DRIVERS (PTD) BRANCH OF NUPENG

IN PICTURES: 

The leadership of our great Union ably led by the National President, Comrade Williams Akporeha and the General Secretary, Comrade Afolabi Olawale, National Executive Council members, Distinguished guests and Delegates of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) Branch at the just concluded peaceful and credible elections held on 31st October, 2023 at the University of Ibadan Conference Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State.