FG: Nigeria is Greater Than PENGASSAN

…Commends Dangote Refinery as a National Asset, Urges Labour Restraint

The Federal Government has criticised the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) for attempting to hold the nation to ransom over what it described as a minor labour dispute that could have been resolved amicably.

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Speaking on Monday at the opening of the 31st Nigeria Economic Summit (NESG) in Abuja, Vice President Kashim Shettima reaffirmed government’s unwavering support for the $20 billion Dangote Petroleum Refinery, describing it as a national asset that must be protected and preserved in the collective interest of Nigerians.

According to Shettima, the administration is committed to creating an environment of industrial harmony while ensuring that critical industries are safeguarded.

He said:

“Aliko Dangote is not just an individual; he is an institution and a leading light in Nigeria’s economic rejuvenation. How we treat him will determine how the world perceives us. If he had invested $10 billion in Microsoft, Amazon, or Google, he might today be worth $70–80 billion. But he chose to invest in his country, and we owe it to future generations to protect and promote this great Nigerian.”

The Vice President called on both labour and the organised private sector to exercise caution, patriotism, and mutual respect in addressing industrial disputes.

“It’s not about holding the whole nation to ransom because of a minor labour disagreement. Nigeria is greater than PENGASSAN. Nigeria is greater than each and every one of us,” he said.

In a related development, the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) has urged the Federal Government to develop a clear policy framework to prevent unlawful shutdowns of businesses by labour unions.

In a statement signed by its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Muda Yusuf, the CPPE described the protection of investors as a “national economic imperative.”

“Investors mobilise capital, create jobs, and generate tax revenues that sustain government and society. Without them, there can be no sustained growth, employment, or national prosperity. Nigeria must, therefore, urgently institutionalise a fair, secure, and predictable business environment that protects those who take risks to create wealth. This is not about weakening labour unions but about balancing rights and responsibilities for sustainable growth, stability, and national security,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, Dangote Petroleum Refinery has expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his timely intervention in averting what it described as “the disruptive actions of PENGASSAN” against the company.

In a statement issued over the weekend, the company commended the President’s leadership and the efforts of key government officials, which helped restore calm and stability in the energy sector.

“Dangote Refinery is grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his intervention through his Ministers and senior officials, which led to the abatement of the disruptive actions of PENGASSAN against the Refinery,” the statement read.

The company specifically acknowledged the contributions of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adeola Toyin Ajayi; and Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Mr. Mohammed Mohammed, among others.

It also commended the patriotic efforts of the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Mohammed Dingyadi; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu; and Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, who worked tirelessly to avert disruption in the sector.

“We remain very grateful to these officials for their patriotism and national service,” the company stated, extending appreciation to Nigerians for their overwhelming support during the period.