Petrol station workers across Nigeria are calling on the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) to provide health insurance for all staff, including pump attendants, cleaners, security personnel, and managers.

The demand follows the recent launch of a health insurance program by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for employees at its retail outlets, which labour advocates have praised as a positive step.

Ibrahim Zango, convener of the group Concerned Petrol Station Workers, said IPMAN should adopt a similar initiative to protect the welfare of workers employed by independent marketers. He highlighted the daily risks faced by petrol station staff, such as exposure to toxic fumes, fire hazards, and long working hours, making access to healthcare critical.

“These workers’ safety and health cannot be an afterthought. Every worker deserves protection, regardless of whether they work for NNPCL or independent outlets,” Zango said.

He also emphasized that health insurance is a basic right, not a luxury, and that denying coverage affects both the well-being and productivity of workers. Zango noted that rising living costs and healthcare expenses have made petrol station workers particularly vulnerable, with many earning modest wages.

The convener stressed the need for structured and well-organized leadership at local, state, and national levels to ensure better coordination, representation, and service delivery within the sector.

Zango urged IPMAN to act quickly, noting that providing health insurance would not only safeguard workers’ lives but also help maintain a motivated and stable workforce in the downstream petroleum industry.