The Federal Government has declared that the interest of Nigeria outweighs any group or union, including the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN.
This position came as the government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the multibillion-dollar Dangote Refinery project as a key national asset capable of transforming the country’s energy sector.
Vice President Kashim Shettima made the statement on Monday during the opening session of the 2025 Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja. He emphasized that the government would not allow any industrial dispute or vested interest to undermine the progress of the Dangote Refinery, describing the project as vital to the nation’s economic growth and self-sufficiency. “Nigeria is greater than PENGASSAN. Nigeria is greater than each and every one of us,” Shettima stated.
The Vice President explained that the $20 billion Dangote Refinery was not just a private investment but a national asset whose success would influence foreign investor confidence in Nigeria. He urged stakeholders to prioritize national development over narrow interests. “How we treat this gentleman will determine how outsiders will judge us,” he said, referring to Aliko Dangote, the billionaire industrialist behind the refinery.
Shettima maintained that the refinery symbolizes the strength of Nigerian innovation and resilience. He noted that its operation would save the nation billions of dollars spent on fuel imports and create thousands of jobs for citizens. “The Dangote project must be supported because it represents a future of industrial independence for our country,” he added.
Also speaking, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, backed the Vice President’s remarks, stressing that the government will continue to support strategic private investments that align with the country’s growth agenda. He said the administration is committed to ensuring policies that protect industries contributing to Nigeria’s economic diversification.
The Federal Government reiterated that it will maintain dialogue with all labour unions but insisted that national interest must come first in all negotiations. Officials emphasized that the government is not against unionism but will always act to safeguard projects that benefit millions of Nigerians. “We are open to engagement, but we must remember that no organization is above the country,” Shettima concluded.
