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By Daniel Adaji
The Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association (DTCDA) has assured Nigerians that its members will continue to ensure uninterrupted fuel distribution across the country despite the planned strike by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).
In a statement signed by its National President, Barr. Enoch Kanawa, and issued on Saturday in Abuja, the association said its members remain committed to supporting the deregulated downstream sector and the “Renewed Hope” agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
“At the meeting of the National Executive Council of the Association held today in Abuja, the purported threat of NUPENG to go on strike beginning on Monday the 8th September, 2025 was reviewed and the following resolution was reached,” the statement read.
Kanawa emphasised that the association will not join issues with NUPENG but insisted on putting matters in proper perspective to avoid public misinformation.
According to him, “the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees the freedom of association for persons to voluntarily choose who and whom to associate or partner with. More so that the Nigerian economy is fully deregulated.”
The DTCDA described itself as an association of drivers in both wet and dry cargo, including those employed by companies like Dangote and MRS. It stressed that its role goes beyond advocacy to providing members with health insurance, pension benefits, and welfare packages, particularly after retirement.
“The leadership of the DTCDA is committed to the transparent, accountable and good governance of the Association in the promotion and protection of its members’ welfare, ensuring safe driving, education, safety and sanity on our highways,” the statement noted.
The association further urged the Federal Government to protect drivers from coercion by any organization seeking to force membership.
“Any person that is licensed to drive a heavy duty vehicle should be matured enough both physically, mentally and emotionally to discern which organization can best serve his/her own interests,” Kanawa said.
On the issue of fuel distribution, the DTCDA declared its support for deregulation, pledging to continue playing a key role in moving petroleum products and other goods nationwide.
“The DTCDA believes that any action against the smooth flow of petroleum products in the country is a disservice, flagrant abuse of the power of unionism and should be condemned by all Nigerians and the general public,” the statement added.