President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the importance of Labour Unions forging stronger partnerships with the government to enhance the welfare of Nigerians.
Speaking through the Minister of State for Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lopkpobiri, during the Grand Commissioning of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) Tower in Lagos on Wednesday, Tinubu highlighted that the growth and success of the nation’s oil and gas industry rely significantly on the contributions of NUPENG and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).
In his address to Labour Union leaders, he encouraged them to prioritize dialogue over industrial actions, advocating for collaborative efforts to improve the nation’s landscape.
“The relationship between Labour Unions and the government must be strengthened to foster growth in the sector for the benefit of all Nigerians,” Tinubu asserted. “The performance of the oil and gas industry will be directly linked to the effectiveness of NUPENG and PENGASSAN. The workforce is vital to any organization’s success.”
He urged all parties to enhance their cooperation and maintain open lines of communication. “Instead of resorting to strikes, let’s engage in productive discussions. The Federal Government is eager to hear and consider the best proposals you wish to present,” he stated.
Additionally, in a goodwill message, Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), reaffirmed that the Port Harcourt Refinery is operational and producing goods, dispelling any doubts about its viability. He assured stakeholders that efforts are underway to restore other refineries to full functionality.
