Salimon Oladiti Poised to Become NUPENG President as Akporeha Steps Down
The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) is gearing up for a significant leadership change, with Salimon Oladiti, a former National Chairman of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch, set to be elected as the new President. The election is scheduled for April 24 in Lagos, following the announcement by incumbent President Williams Akporeha, whose tenure concludes after two consecutive terms totaling eight years.
Historic Transition for NUPENG
Akporeha made his exit declaration during the quarterly National Executive Council meeting of the PTD branch held in Warri, Delta State. This transition marks a historic milestone for NUPENG, as it would be the first time a member from the PTD branch ascends to the presidency of the union. At the meeting, Joseph Okafor, Zonal Chairman of PTD-NUPENG for the Port Harcourt Zone, moved a motion for the unanimous ratification of Oladiti for the position, which was seconded by Adekunle Akinlaja of the Lagos Zone.
Akporeha's Valedictory Remarks and Endorsement
In what appeared to be valedictory remarks, Akporeha expressed deep appreciation to PTD members for their unwavering support throughout his eight-year tenure. He recounted, "Eight years ago, you stood by me in this same room. You not only stood by me, you supported me. When things were tough, you were there through all the challenges." Akporeha explained that his support for a PTD member succeeding him was driven by gratitude and conviction, stating, "I want to appreciate all of you. If I stand to support one of your own as president, I have no apology. If I have done anything otherwise, my conscience would have troubled me. God used you to install me."
He urged members to extend the same level of support to Oladiti and the newly elected National Chairman of the PTD Branch, Mathias Ote, to ensure the continued growth and stability of the union. Akporeha emphasized, "By the grace of God, as I move along, I want to see a union stronger than I left it. I don't want to see PTD go into disarray. The greatest favour you can do is to support this man whom you have elected today as your national chairman. Also, support your own that will be the president, and by the grace of God, on April 24, when I shall be in your midst again as former president."
New Leadership Pledges Commitment
In his inaugural remarks, Mathias Ote thanked the union's leadership and members for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to provide purposeful leadership. He said, "Sincerely, I appreciate all our members and leaders for finding me worthy to be given the privilege to lead our branch for the next four years. You can agree with me that there are so many other capable and competent hands that can lead this great branch, but in your collective wise decision and by the special grace of the Almighty God, I was elected as the branch chairman." Ote added, "Comrades, silver nor gold have I none to offer in appreciation of your love, support, prayers, and encouragement towards the success of my election, but what I have, which is good leadership, I will spare nothing in providing for it."
External Commendation for Peaceful Transition
Also speaking at the event, Lawal Othman, President of the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), commended NUPENG for fostering a peaceful transition process. He stated, "I once again want to appreciate NUPENG. NARTO will continue to give you the necessary support." This endorsement highlights the collaborative efforts within the petroleum and transport sectors to maintain stability and progress during this leadership change.
