Nigeria: NUPENG Suspends Two-Day Strike

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The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has suspended its two-day strike following a meeting with officials of the Federal Government and the Dangote Group. The industrial action, which lasted two days, disrupted fuel supply in parts of the country. According to reports, attendees at the meeting included representatives of the Dangote Group led by Sayyu Dantata, officials of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and other stakeholders. The meeting concluded with the signing of an agreement in which the Dangote Refinery committed to unionising its truck drivers. “Following the threat to embark on industrial action by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers over the refusal of the management of the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited to allow their employees to be unionised by registered labour unions, a conciliation meeting was held at the instance of the Minister of Labour and Employment. It was revealed in the course of the meeting that: “The management agreed with this fact and responded that they are not averse to the unionisation of their employees by labour unions in line with the provisions of the extant labour laws. After exhaustive deliberations, the following resolutions were reached by both parties: “That since workers’ unionisation is a right in line with the provisions of the law, the management of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals agreed to the unionisation of employees of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals who are willing to unionise. “That the process of unionisation shall commence immediately and be completed within two weeks (9–22 September 2025), and it was agreed that the employer will not establish any alternative union. “Arising from the strike notice, no worker or employee of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals will be victimised,” the agreement read. The parties also agreed to report back to the Minister of Labour a week after the conclusion of the process. Based on the memorandum of understanding (MoU), NUPENG suspended the industrial action with immediate effect. The MoU was signed by Dangote Group’s Sayyu Dantata; NUPENG President Williams Akporeha and General Secretary Afolabi Olawale; NMDPRA official O.K. Ukoha; Labour Ministry Director Amos Falonipe; and representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC).       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: Energy Media Group Opens Nominations For 9th Ghana Energy Awards, Closes October 31

The Energy Media Group, organisers of the Ghana Energy Awards, has opened nominations for this year’s edition following a successful launch at the Airport View Hotel in Accra, Ghana’s capital, on September 9, 2025. Nominations are open until October 31, 2025. The official unveiling brought together several key players in the energy industry from both government and the private sector. The prestigious awards, which will be held under the theme “Repositioning the Energy Sector as a Pillar of National Development,” will feature 26 competitive and six honorary categories. Key awards include Energy Personality of the Year, CEO of the Year, and Energy Company of the Year. New categories include Energy Sector Reformer of the Year, Upstream Company of the Year, Downstream Company of the Year, Energy Sector Operational Resilience Award, and Emerging Female Leader in Energy. Organisers and government officials used the occasion to stress the importance of the theme, urging stakeholders to recognise energy not just as an enabler of growth but as the foundation of Ghana’s socio-economic transformation. Since its inception in 2017, the annual awards—endorsed by the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition and the World Energy Council–Ghana—have recognised individuals and institutions for exemplary contributions to Ghana’s energy sector. In a speech read on his behalf by Deputy Minister Hon. Richard Gyan-Mensah, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, described the awards as a “beacon of excellence, innovation, and leadership” in the energy landscape. He added: “It not only celebrates outstanding achievements but also inspires continued commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable energy future for our nation.” Hon. Jinapor also underscored the importance of energy access to Ghana’s development: “For a country like Ghana, whose socio-economic growth is intimately tied to energy access and reliability, the energy sector is not a mere enabler of development; it is its foundation.” Event Director and CEO of the Energy Media Group, Ing. Henry Teinor, explained that this year’s launch was moved from its usual May/June period to allow for wider stakeholder engagement. Courtesy calls were conducted with sector leaders to introduce the scheme, gather feedback from last year’s edition, and align with evolving policy priorities. “This proactive outreach underscores our dedication to inclusivity and deeper sectoral engagement,” Ing. Teinor stated, adding that further engagements will continue after the launch. Beyond the annual celebration, organisers emphasised that the Ghana Energy Awards aim to create a lasting impact on society. Ing. Teinor highlighted the Energy Personalities Outreach Programme (EPOP)—a STEM initiative where the Energy Personalities of the Year (Male and Female) engage with senior high school students to inspire and nurture the next generation of energy leaders. So far, the programme has reached more than 15,000 students nationwide. The organisers also announced a new endorsement from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), joining existing endorsements from the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, the World Energy Council–Ghana, and independent validators Forvis Mazars and Casely Brooke Law Firm. Ing. Teinor further revealed that a redesigned awards website is nearing completion, with new provisions for virtual courtesy calls and site visits to broaden participation. These innovations, he said, will “enhance accessibility and allow for broader participation from across the country.” Chairman of the Awarding Panel, Kwame Jantuah, Esq., said this year’s theme reflects the critical role of energy in Ghana’s future. “Energy is not just an enabler of development; it is the very engine that powers industry, education, healthcare, digital transformation, and job creation,” he noted. The panel, which held its first sitting in July, includes experts from academia, policy, law, and industry. It reviewed feedback from stakeholders and refined the award categories to ensure their continued relevance. “Our focus is not only on rewarding success but on setting meaningful benchmarks for excellence,” Mr. Jantuah added. Nominations are open until October 31, 2025 via https://ghanaenergyawards.com/nomination-category.   Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

EU Court Upholds Green Label For Gas And Nuclear Energy

The General Court of the Court of Justice of the European Union, Europe’s second-highest court, ruled on Wednesday that the EU has the right to label some natural gas and nuclear projects as “sustainable investments,” dismissing a challenge brought by Austria.

In 2022, the European Commission updated in 2022 its Taxonomy Complementary Climate Delegated Act on climate change mitigation and adaptation covering certain gas and nuclear activities. Under the new taxonomy, some gas projects, including several pipelines, were given a “sustainable investment” status. Gas projects are “transitional” if they contribute to the transition from coal to renewables, the EU says. Faced with uncertainty in energy supply after the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the energy crisis that followed, the EU allowed certain nuclear and gas projects to be classed as “sustainable investments”. In its ruling today, the General Court said that “The Commission was entitled to take the view that certain economic activities in the nuclear energy and fossil gas sectors can, under certain conditions, contribute substantially to climate change mitigation and climate change adaptation.” With this ruling, the court dismissed Austria’s action against the inclusion of nuclear energy and fossil gas in the sustainable investment framework. Austria had sought an annulment of the regulation. But the court sided with the Commission and noted that the EC “was entitled to take the view that nuclear energy generation has near to zero greenhouse gas emissions and that there are currently no technologically and economically feasible low-carbon alternatives at a sufficient scale, such as renewable energy sources, to cover the energy demand in a continuous and reliable manner.” “The approach taken by the 2022 delegated regulation is a gradual approach based on a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in stages, while allowing for security of supply,” the General Court said. The court’s decision is “very regrettable,” Austrian Climate Minister Norbert Totschnig said in a statement sent to AFP. Environmentalists weren’t happy with the court’s ruling, either. “A dark day for the climate. The ruling is a major setback for climate and consumer protection,” Martin Kaiser, executive director of Greenpeace Germany, said. “With this ruling, the European Court of Justice legitimizes greenwashing in the financial sector and undermines Europe’s climate targets,” Kaiser added.       Source: Oilprice.com

Kenya: Tourist Dies After Sudden Collapse At Kenya’s Olkaria Geothermal Spa

The Kenya Electricity Generation Company (KenGen) has confirmed the death of a tourist who collapsed at its Olkaria Geothermal Spa on the afternoon of Sunday, September 7, 2025. According to KenGen, the tourist collapsed while enjoying the facility. Lifeguards and the on-site medical team responded immediately, providing first aid and advanced life support before transferring the individual to Naivasha Level IV Hospital using one of the company’s ambulances, which was on standby at the spa. In a statement, KenGen noted that despite all emergency efforts—both on-site and at the hospital—the visitor was sadly pronounced dead while receiving treatment. KenGen extended its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones affected by the tragic loss. “We share in their grief and remain ready to offer every possible support during this difficult time,” the statement read. Despite the tragedy, KenGen emphasized that safety remains a core value in its operations and reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest health and safety standards across all its facilities. The company added that it is cooperating fully with the relevant authorities as they work to establish the cause of death and assured the public that updates will be shared as more information becomes available. Source:hhtps://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: Energy Minister Inaugurates Electricity Market Oversight Panel (EMOP)

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Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, inaugurated a 10-member Electricity Market Oversight Panel (EMOP) on September 5, 2025. The panel’s primary role is to reinforce regulatory oversight, promote efficiency, and enhance credibility of the electricity supply chain. Hon. Jinapor urged them to develop strategies ensuring continuous stability in the electricity sector. The EMOP is chaired by Mr. Samuel Sarpong. The other members are Ing. Bernard Mordey, Mrs. Eunice Biritwum (Acting Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission), Kisman A. Eghan, Frank A. Yeboah, Richard N.A. Badger, Frank A. Otchere, Mr. Julius Kwame Kpekpena (Acting Managing Director of ECG), Ing. Mark Awuah Baah (Acting Chief Executive Officer of GRIDCo), and Dr. Shafic Suleman (Acting Executive Secretary of PURC). The Electricity Regulations, 2008 (L.I. 1937), established the Ghana Wholesale Electricity Market (GWEM) to facilitate wholesale trading of electricity and the provision of ancillary services in the National Interconnected Transmission System (NITS). L.I. 1937 further established the Electricity Market Oversight Panel (EMOP) to supervise the administration and operation of the GWEM. In his address, Energy Minister Hon. Jinapor expressed confidence in their expertise and pledged the Ministry’s support and guidance in their operations. The Minister further directed the panel to review the operations, procedures, and manual of the wholesale electricity market. Chairman of the panel, Mr. Samuel Sarpong, assured that the panel will be strictly guided by the newly approved market rules, as well as existing policies and regulations in the sector. Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Zambia: ZESCO Blames Intermittent Power Supply On System Instability

Zambia’s power utility company, ZESCO Limited, has attributed the recent power outages experienced in parts of the country to system instability in its network.

The power distributor acknowledged the inconvenience caused and apologised to affected residents.

In a statement, ZESCO assured the public that its technical teams are working diligently to restore normal supply.

“Our technical teams are actively working to resolve these challenges and restore stable supply in the shortest possible time,” the company said.

Despite the challenges, ZESCO reiterated its commitment to providing reliable service and pledged to continue updating the public as the situation evolves.

“We appreciate your patience and understanding,” the statement concluded.

    Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Ethiopia: Prime Minister Abiy Commissions Africa’s Largest 5,000MW Hydropower Dam

Ethiopia has officially inaugurated Africa’s largest hydroelectric power dam, located on a tributary of the Nile River. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), constructed at a cost of $5 billion, has sparked hope among Ethiopians as it is expected to supply electricity to millions of citizens. The dam’s output has gradually increased since the first turbine was activated in 2022, reaching its maximum capacity of 5,150 MW on Tuesday. This places it among the world’s 20 largest hydroelectric dams, with about one-quarter of the capacity of China’s Three Gorges Dam. At a ceremony held on Tuesday at the site in Guba, an Ethiopian fighter jet flew low over the mist from the dam’s cascading waters, which plunge 170 metres (558 feet). Beneath the canopy of a giant Ethiopian flag, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed addressed dignitaries, including the presidents of Somalia, Djibouti, and Kenya. “To our brothers in Sudan and Egypt: Ethiopia built the dam to prosper, to electrify the entire region, and to change the history of black people,” Abiy said. “It is absolutely not to harm its brothers.” Abiy emphasized that the dam will expand electricity access for nearly half of Ethiopia’s population who lacked it as recently as 2022, while enabling the country to export surplus power across the region. The reservoir created by the dam has flooded an area larger than Greater London. The government says this will help provide a steady water supply for irrigation downstream and limit both floods and droughts. However, Ethiopia’s downstream neighbours have viewed the project with concern since construction began in 2011. Egypt, which built its own Aswan High Dam on the Nile in the 1960s, fears the GERD could restrict its water supply during droughts and potentially set a precedent for other upstream dams. Its Foreign Ministry wrote to the U.N. Security Council, arguing that the inauguration violated international law. Cairo has long opposed the project, citing water treaties from the early 20th century and describing the dam as an existential threat. Egypt has stated it reserves the right to “take all appropriate measures to defend and protect the interests of the Egyptian people.” While refraining from direct reprisals against Ethiopia, Cairo has strengthened ties in recent years with Addis Ababa’s regional rivals, notably Eritrea. Sudan, meanwhile, has echoed Egypt’s call for a legally binding agreement on the dam’s filling and operation but also stands to benefit from improved flood control and access to affordable electricity. Ethiopia has filled the reservoir in phases since 2020, insisting the process would not significantly harm downstream countries. Independent research supports this claim, noting that so far no major disruptions to downstream water flow have been recorded—thanks to both favourable rainfall and the phased filling of the reservoir during wet seasons over a five-year period.       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: ECG To Invest $1.1 Billion In Distribution Network Over Next Five Years; Seeks Approval For 225% Increase In Distribution Service Charge

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced plans to invest $1.1 billion in its distribution network over the next five years to improve power supply, this portal can confirm. According to ECG, the planned investment will cover projects aimed at enhancing electricity reliability, reducing technical losses, improving revenue collection, and addressing other operational areas. Of the total $1.6 billion investment plan, the allocation is as follows:$426 million for reliability improvement projects, $89 million for technical loss and voltage improvement projects, $925 million for commercial and revenue improvement projects, and $182 million for other distribution network-related projects. Out of the total amount, donors and the Government of Ghana are expected to contribute $222 million, with the remaining $1.4 billion to be funded through tariff provisions. As a result, ECG has proposed to the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) to increase its distribution service charge from Ghp19.03 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to Ghp64.80 per kWh, representing a 225% increase for the 2025–2029 Multi-Year Tariff Review period. ECG has already invested $408 million since 2022 in substations, system automation, and the deployment of 1 million smart meters. The company plans to roll out an additional 3.1 million smart meters if the new tariff is approved. The company assures customers of improved billing accuracy, free replacement of faulty meters, faster complaint resolution, and enhanced voltage supply. The PURC began tariff consultations on Monday, with civil society organizations (CSOs) and media representatives in attendance. The commission will make its final decision after the stakeholder consultation process is completed. Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Global Investment In Electricity To Hit USD 1.5 Trillion By End Of 2025 – IEA Report

Investment in the electricity sector is projected to reach USD 1.5 trillion by the end of 2025, which is 50% higher than the total amount being spent on bringing oil, natural gas, and coal to market, according to the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) World Energy Investment 2025 report. The report notes that spending on low-emissions power generation has nearly doubled over the past five years. “Led by solar, investment in both utility-scale and rooftop solar is expected to reach USD 450 billion in 2025, making it the single largest item in our inventory of global energy investment,” the IEA stated. Regarding nuclear power, the report highlights a notable resurgence, with investment rising by 50% over the past five years. Approvals of new gas-fired power plants are also increasing. Investment in new nuclear plants and refurbishment is set to exceed USD 70 billion, with expectations for further growth driven by rising interest in emerging technologies, such as small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs). However, the report warns that investment in electricity grids is struggling to keep pace with power demand and the accelerated deployment of renewables. “Each year, around USD 400 billion is now spent on grids worldwide, compared with around USD 1 billion on generation assets,” it noted. On the oil sector, the report emphasizes that investment is largely driven by oil prices and demand expectations. It projects a 6% decline in upstream investment in 2025, continuing the year-on-year downward trend that began with the COVID-19 slump in 2020. In contrast, investment in Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) facilities is on an upward trajectory. The report also highlights that investment in low-emissions fuels is set to reach a new high in 2025. However, at less than USD 30 billion, it remains relatively small in absolute terms and is highly dependent on supportive policy and regulatory frameworks. When discussing the cost trends for clean technologies, the report noted a resumption of strong downward pressure on prices. While supply chain pressures persist, particularly for grid materials and in the oil and gas sectors, prices for clean energy equipment have fallen significantly. The IEA’s Clean Energy Equipment Price Index reached a record low in early 2024, showing a 60% decline compared to a decade ago. Prices for Chinese solar panels and wind turbines have fallen by 60% and 50% respectively since 2022. In contrast, wind turbine costs in Europe have risen. Despite elevated geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, this tenth edition of the IEA’s World Energy Investment report shows that total capital flows into the energy sector are set to rise to USD 3.3 trillion in 2025, a 2% real-term increase over 2024. Of this, around USD 2.2 trillion is going collectively to renewables, nuclear, grids, storage, low-emissions fuels, energy efficiency, and electrification — twice as much as the USD 1.1 trillion going into oil, natural gas, and coal. Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Congo Signs $23 Billion Hydrocarbon Deal With China’s Wing Wah

The Republic of the Congo has signed a $23 billion hydrocarbon deal with Chinese oil and gas company Wing Wah for the integrated development of the Banga Kayo, Holmoni and Cayo permits, aiming to raise national oil output to 200,000 bpd by 2030. The agreement was officially signed by Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons of Congo, Jean-Jacques Bouya, Minister of State of Congo and Xiao Lianping, President General, Wing Wah in August. Through the pact, Congo is looking to ramp up cumulative production across the three permits to more than 1.3 billion barrels by 2050. The deal is a central pillar in the country’s broader economic and financial strategy, committing over $23 billion in investment and promising substantial fiscal and para-fiscal revenues. The project also includes an integrated gas monetization component, with multi-phase expansion of LNG, LPG, butane and propane production capacity–intended to satisfy both domestic demand and exports. The integrated nature of the development includes scalable gas treatment infrastructure, on-site power generation and water-management systems–all designed for efficiency and community benefit. Wing Wah has already established a significant presence in Congo via its development of the Banga Kayo field. This onshore permit currently comprises around 237–250 drilled wells and produces approximately 45,000 bpd, approaching a peak output of 50,000–80,000 bpd. The Republic of Congo took a significant step towards maximizing its hydrocarbon resources with the signing of an amended Production Sharing Contract (PSC) between Minister of Hydrocarbons Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua and China’s Wing Wah Oil Company for the Banga Kayo block last year. This move marked the beginning of development at the block and underscored the country’s commitment to tapping into its untapped resources. The amended PSC outlined a three-phase development plan, demonstrating the importance of public-private partnerships in developing oil and gas projects in Africa, providing a clear path to resource monetization. “The Republic of the Congo is aggressively developing its oil and gas resources, led by its Ministry of Hydrocarbons,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber. “The country’s rapid approach to resource development serves as a model for other African nations rich in natural resources. With ambitious plans to increase production capacity, Congo is set to unlock new opportunities for sustainable economic growth through strategic oil and gas investments.”     Source: Worldoil.com

Ghana: NEDCo To Resume Meter Monitoring During Non-Regular Working Hours From Sept. 10

The Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) has announced that, starting Wednesday, September 10, 2025, it will resume its rigorous meter monitoring exercises outside regular working hours across the northern zone. According to a statement issued by Maxwell Kotoka, Head of Corporate Communications at NEDCo, the exercise is primarily aimed at detecting illegal electricity connections, which continue to cause significant financial losses to the company. The statement explained that authorized NEDCo staff will conduct unannounced visits to customers’ premises during non-regular working hours to inspect electricity meters. It clarified that there is no law prohibiting staff from performing legitimate duties outside standard working hours. NEDCo emphasised that these inspections will be carried out professionally, with no form of harassment or intimidation, and urged customers to remain calm and cooperative. The monitoring exercise was temporarily suspended a few weeks ago to allow for broader stakeholder engagement following public concerns. NEDCo also advised consumers to conserve electricity and use it responsibly to avoid higher electricity bills, rather than resorting to illegal connections, which could ultimately cripple the company. The company called on all customers to fully cooperate to ensure the success of the monitoring exercise.       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Tanzania: PH, Igombe Hotels Caught Using Electricity Illegally

The Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) has apprehended PH Hotel and Igombe Hotel, located in Morogoro Province in eastern Tanzania, for engaging in electricity theft, popularly known as illegal connection. The two hotels were caught during a nationwide special audit operation conducted by TANESCO. During the inspection, TANESCO’s team discovered that a T2 meter had been tampered with and connected using loose wires, allowing the hotels to use electricity without proper billing. This illegal activity has resulted in significant revenue loss for the company. TANESCO is currently investigating the matter to determine the amount of electricity consumed illegally and to take appropriate legal action against those responsible.     Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: PETROSOL Confirms Loss Of A Life After Accident Involving Company Vehicle

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PETROSOL Platinum Energy Limited, one of Ghana’s leading OMCs, has confirmed the loss of a life following an accident involving one of its fleet vehicles in Accra, capital of Ghana, on Sunday morning, September 7, 2025. The company did not provide details of the victim, citing respect for the privacy of the bereaved families. Two other victims are currently on admission receiving medical care. The company expressed deep concern about the tragic outcome of this morning’s incident and extended its deepest condolences to the grieving families. “Out of profound respect for the families’ privacy, we will not be providing specific details on the conditions of the individuals involved. We are focused on providing our full support to the family and continuing our cooperation with the Ghana Police Service,” PETROSOL said in an update on its earlier statement on the incident. According to the company, its internal investigation, in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, has established its vehicle that was involved in the accident was taken without authorisation from its head office premises by a security guard on duty. The company explained that the security man in question is not an employee of PETROSOL but rather an employee of a third-party security agency contracted to guard its facility. “These actions were carried out without the knowledge or consent of PETROSOL and constitute a serious breach of the trust we place in our service providers,” the company said. The company emphasised that it is engaging with the management of the contracted security agency to address this grave matter. The company expressed its unwavering commitment to the families affected by the tragedy and assured them of continued support. “We are cooperating fully with the Ghana Police Service to ensure the individual involved is held accountable and that their investigation proceeds swiftly,” the statement concluded.       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Nigeria: NUPENG Declares Strike Over Dangote Refinery’s Alleged Anti-Labour Practices

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The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has announced a nationwide strike starting Monday, September 8, 2025, in protest against alleged “modern slavery” practices at Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest petroleum refinery. In a joint statement issued on September 7, 2025, by NUPENG President Williams Akporeha and General Secretary Afolabi Olufemi, the union accused the Dangote Group of barring drivers of its 4,000 CNG-powered trucks from joining any union, a move the union strongly opposes. NUPENG specifically condemned the creation of the Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association (DTCDA), calling it a management-backed outfit aimed at weakening union influence. The union insists that DTCDA is not a legitimate union but rather a vehicle formed to restrict drivers’ rights to free association. NUPENG labeled the development as an attempt to impose exploitative labor conditions, warning that “any worker who cannot exercise the right of association is no better than a slave.” Despite opposition to the strike by both DTCDA and the Petrol Tanker Drivers arm, NUPENG has vowed to remain united and defend workers’ rights. NUPENG called on the public to stand against what it terms a dangerous return to “slavish” working conditions in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. The management of Dangote Refinery is yet to respond to these allegations.       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com