Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has attributed the crisis between Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN, to a “gap in communication”. The governor made this statement while appearing on Channels Television’s Politics Today, emphasizing the need for PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery’s leadership to meet and discuss possible solutions to the crisis.
According to Governor Sule, there is a notable difference in how government-owned enterprises and private organizations like Dangote manage unions. He commended the federal government’s intervention in the matter, stating that the Dangote refinery is a vital institution that benefits the entire nation, not just the company’s owner. The refinery has alleviated numerous challenges in Nigeria, including concerns about turnaround maintenance, port congestion, and fertiliser production.
The governor appealed to PENGASSAN, Dangote management, and the federal government to resolve the issue amicably, without resorting to legal action, as these parties will need to work together for an extended period. He noted that the Dangote refinery is not only crucial for Nigeria but also exports petroleum products to other countries, making it essential to prevent any challenges that could affect the institution’s operations.
Governor Sule drew from his experience managing the Dangote Sugar refinery, where he observed that the approach to union management differed significantly from that of government-owned enterprises. He suggested that a key factor in resolving the crisis is establishing a clear understanding between PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery, ensuring that the benefits agreed upon by the unions are implemented, and fostering a collaborative work environment.
The resolution of the crisis between Dangote Refinery and PENGASSAN is crucial, as it will have a significant impact on the Nigerian economy and the country’s reputation internationally. The federal government’s intervention and the parties’ willingness to engage in dialogue are vital steps towards finding a solution. As the Dangote refinery continues to play a critical role in Nigeria’s energy sector, it is essential to address the communication gap and work towards a mutually beneficial agreement.