The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has urged labour unions in Nigeria to be cautious of actions that could hinder indigenous private sector investment in the country’s industrial development. The forum expressed concern that Nigeria’s labour unions should be aware of international conspiracies aimed at sabotaging the country’s quest for indigenous industrial growth.

In a statement issued by ACF National Publicity Secretary, Prof. T. A. Muhammad-Baba, the forum reminded the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) that any negotiations should prioritize the interests of all parties involved. The ACF supported the ongoing federal government-led negotiations to resolve the impasse and welcomed the recent truce, while calling for appropriate sanctions against PENGASSAN for allegedly disobeying a court order.

The forum also advocated for a commission of inquiry with judicial powers to investigate the frequent strikes by employees of vital national and private institutions. The ACF stated that it has been monitoring the challenges faced by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Company, a world-class facility in Lagos State, which has been plagued by logistical issues, regulatory concerns, and supply problems since its conception.

The Dangote Refinery, Nigeria’s largest and most modern indigenous industrial crude oil processing outfit, has encountered numerous obstacles, including public regulatory agencies’ concerns about product quality, crude oil supplies from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), distribution, and pricing issues. The ACF’s statement highlighted the need for labour unions to consider the broader implications of their actions on the country’s industrial development and the economy as a whole.

The forum’s call for caution and responsible negotiation comes at a crucial time for Nigeria’s industrial sector, which is seeking to attract and retain investment to drive growth and development. As the country navigates its economic challenges, the ACF’s emphasis on the need for labour unions to prioritize national interests and support indigenous investment initiatives is likely to resonate with stakeholders across the sector.