Nigeria’s Vice‑President, Kashim Shettima, underscored the need to support the Dangote Refinery—a $20 billion, 650,000‑barrel‑per‑day facility—amid a dispute between the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the refinery. Speaking at the Nigerian Economic Summit 2025 in Abuja, Shettima described the refinery as a national asset that must be protected at all costs to ensure its success.
He highlighted the refinery’s importance, noting that its founder, Aliko Dangote, is a leading figure in Nigeria’s economy. Shettima praised Dangote’s decision to invest in his own country rather than abroad, emphasizing the need to safeguard both his interests and those of the refinery. He pointed out that if Dangote had invested in a foreign company such as Microsoft, Amazon, or Google, his wealth would likely be considerably higher.
Calling for caution and patriotism from both labor and the private sector, Shettima urged stakeholders to prioritize the nation’s economic interests over individual disputes. He warned that Nigeria’s progress should not be held hostage by minor labor disagreements, stressing that the country’s interests supersede those of any individual or group, including PENGASSAN.
The Dangote Refinery, one of the largest in Africa, is expected to play a crucial role in Nigeria’s economic development by reducing reliance on imported fuel and creating thousands of jobs. Shettima’s remarks underscore the government’s commitment to supporting the refinery and promoting economic growth. While the disagreement between PENGASSAN and the refinery has raised concerns about its economic impact, the Vice‑President’s statement suggests that the government is determined to find a resolution that prioritizes national interests. The outcome will depend on how the parties work toward a mutually beneficial solution.
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