Vice President Kashim Shettima has cautioned the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) over its ongoing dispute with the Dangote Refinery, urging the union to prioritize national interest above individual or organizational concerns.
Speaking at the opening session of the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja on Monday, the Vice President emphasized the need for restraint, dialogue, and patriotism in resolving labour-related issues affecting the nation’s economic growth.
Shettima described industrialist Aliko Dangote as a national asset and symbol of Nigeria’s industrial advancement, stressing that his contributions to the country’s economy must be recognized and protected.
“Aliko Dangote is not just an individual; he’s an institution and a leading light in Nigeria’s economic firmament. How we treat this gentleman will determine how outsiders will judge us,” Shettima said.
He noted that Dangote’s decision to invest heavily in Nigeria, rather than abroad, was a testament to his patriotism and faith in the country’s potential.
“If he had invested $10 billion in Microsoft, Amazon, or Google, he probably might be worth $70 to $80 billion by now. But he chose to invest in his country, and we owe it to future generations to jealously protect, promote, and preserve the interests of this great nation,” the Vice President stated.
Calling for calm between labour unions and the private sector, Shettima urged both sides to demonstrate responsibility and a sense of national duty in managing industrial relations. “It’s not about holding the whole nation to ransom because of a minor labour dispute. Nigeria is greater than PENGASSAN. Nigeria is greater than each and every one of us,” he said.
Shettima reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to fostering a stable and productive environment for both labour and industry, emphasizing that collaboration, not confrontation, is key to sustaining economic progress.
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