Kashim Shettima cautions PENGASSAN over its conflict with Dangote, urging restraint to protect investor confidence and Nigeria’s economic stability

Kashim Shettima has cautioned the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) against escalating its dispute with Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, stressing that any attempt to undermine the industrialist could harm Nigeria’s investment image.

Also read: PENGASSAN Strike Sparks Cooking Gas Crisis: NNPC Reveals Supply Disruptions and Price Surge to ₦2,000/kg

Speaking at the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja on Monday, the Vice President described Dangote as “an institution in Nigeria’s economic parlance,” urging labour unions to act with restraint and national interest in mind.

“Aliko Dangote is an institution in Nigeria’s economic parlance, and how we treat this gentleman will determine how outsiders will judge us,” Shettima said firmly.

“If he had invested $10 billion in Microsoft, Amazon, or Google, he would probably be worth $70 to $80 billion by now, but he chose to invest in his country. We owe it to future generations to jealously protect and promote him,” he added.

His remarks come amid heightened tension between PENGASSAN and the Dangote Refinery, following allegations of labour-related disputes.

The clash has drawn public attention and raised concerns over industrial harmony within Nigeria’s vital energy sector.

Shettima stressed that national interest must supersede organisational differences, warning that hostile actions against major investors could deter foreign confidence and stall domestic economic growth.

“I wish to call for more caution from both labour and the organised private sector in defining and improving the relationship between labour and industry,” he said.

“Nigeria is greater than PENGASSAN. Nigeria is greater than each and every one of us.”

The Vice President also urged the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) to play an active role in finding a balanced resolution.

He tasked the group with developing actionable recommendations to ensure industrial stability while upholding fair labour practices.

“The government is hereby tasking the NESG to take more than a passing interest in the matter. We expect recommendations from the NESG in addressing this issue, even as the government takes steps to protect big industry,” he stated.

Shettima concluded by reiterating that his message was not partisan but a patriotic call for collaboration, noting that sustainable growth depends on the protection of both workers and investors.

“I’m not coming to you as partisan,” he said. “I’m coming in search of solutions to our national challenges. The fortunes of our economy depend on how we protect those who invest in it.”

Also read: Peter Obi urges swift action on PENGASSAN strike

With his remarks, Kashim Shettima sent a powerful signal that industrial relations must be managed with diplomacy and foresight to secure Nigeria’s economic future.