Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule said the crisis between Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) stems from a “gap in communication.” Speaking on Channels Television’s *Politics Today*, he urged the leadership of both PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery to meet and discuss possible solutions.
Governor Sule highlighted a key difference in how government‑owned enterprises and private firms such as Dangote handle unions. He praised the federal government’s intervention, noting that the Dangote refinery is a vital institution that benefits the entire nation, not just its owner. The refinery has eased many challenges in Nigeria, including turnaround maintenance, port congestion and fertilizer production, and it also exports petroleum products to other countries.
The governor appealed to PENGASSAN, Dangote management and the federal government to resolve the dispute amicably, without resorting to legal action, because the parties will need to work together for an extended period. Drawing on his experience managing the Dangote Sugar refinery, he observed that union management there differed significantly from that in government enterprises. He suggested that a clear understanding between PENGASSAN and Dangote, proper implementation of agreed‑upon benefits, and a collaborative work environment are essential to ending the crisis.
Resolving the dispute is crucial for Nigeria’s economy and its international reputation. The federal government’s involvement and the willingness of the parties to engage in dialogue are vital steps toward a solution, ensuring the refinery can continue its critical role in the country’s energy sector.
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