The House of Representatives has called for constructive dialogue between labour unions and operators in the petroleum industry to resolve ongoing disputes, specifically referencing the tensions involving the Dangote Refinery.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Mr. Ikenga Ugochinyere, made the call in Abuja during the annual Downstream Petroleum Week.
Addressing the recent conflicts, Ugochinyere stated that the Green Chamber is aware of the labour concerns and noted that while such issues are not uncommon, they “must never be allowed to undermine productivity or national interest.”
He urged all parties to “pursue dialogue over disruptions at all times,” assuring them of the parliament’s readiness to facilitate resolutions based on “peace, fairness, and mutual respect.”
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Benjamin Kalu, stated that the oil and gas sector is witnessing a revival under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
He tasked stakeholders with developing solutions to the challenges facing the downstream sector.Similarly, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Kawu Sumaila, acknowledged that despite recorded successes, significant challenges remain.
Reporting by Tanimu Salihu