Looming PENGASSAN strike threat to Nigeria’s economy – NACCIMA

• Chamber urged urgent dialogue to avert crisis

By Rebecca Amore

The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has warned that the nationwide strike threatened by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) over its dispute with Dangote Refinery could cripple the country’s fragile economic stability.

National President, NACCIMA, Dr Jani Ibrahim, in a statement, expressed concern that the dispute poses a clear danger to the economy, warning that disruptions in energy supply would paralyse transport, manufacturing, and public services.

Ibrahim said the business community is alarmed at the potential impact on jobs, inflation, and investor confidence, and pledged to support or facilitate dialogue if required.

He urged the Federal Government, PENGASSAN, and Dangote Refinery to urgently return to the negotiation table, stressing that dialogue is not optional but urgent and necessary.

“NACCIMA is deeply concerned about the nationwide strike threat by PENGASSAN.

“If not urgently addressed, this conflict could disrupt energy supply, paralyse transportation and manufacturing, and weaken public services across the country.

“A nationwide shutdown in the energy sector at this time would be a crippling blow to Nigeria’s stabilising economy.

“The business community is alarmed at the possible consequences for jobs, inflation, and investor confidence. Dialogue is not optional; it is urgent and necessary.

“We call on the Federal Government, PENGASSAN, and Dangote Refinery management to return to the negotiation table immediately.

“Industrial peace and constructive dialogue are critical to protect livelihoods, restore investor confidence, and safeguard Nigeria’s refining capacity.

“NACCIMA stands ready to support and, if necessary, facilitate dialogue in the national interest.

“The looming strike is a clear and present danger to Nigeria’s economy. NACCIMA, on behalf of the business community, appeals for urgent intervention, industrial peace, and prioritisation of national interest.”