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2026: Aspirant Unveils Plans for Greater Osun, Prioritizes Mechanised Farming, Affordable Healthcare, Business-friendly Reforms

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

The immediate past Deputy Governor of Osun State and leading governorship Aspirant for the 2026 gubernatorial election, Benedict Olugboyega Alabi (BOA), has reiterated his commitment to delivering transformative governance that prioritizes the welfare of the people and the sustainable development of the state.

The Aspirant assured the people of Osun that, if elected as Governor in 2026, his administration will focus on mechanized farming support to boost agricultural productivity, create employment opportunities, and strengthen food security.

Alabi who stated this while hosting All Progressive Congress ( APC) stakeholders in the state emphasized that modernizing the agricultural sector is key to revitalizing the state’s economy and improving the livelihood of farmers across all local government areas.

He also pledged to provide affordable and accessible healthcare for all residents, noting that quality health services are fundamental to a prosperous society.

He said “my plans include rehabilitating healthcare facilities, equipping hospitals with modern medical tools, and ensuring that trained personnel are available to deliver efficient and compassionate care.”

In addition, BOA promised to embark on an extensive rural road network expansion to enhance connectivity, open up rural communities, and stimulate commerce.

He equally expressed confidence that, with the collective support of Osun citizens, his vision will bring lasting progress and prosperity to the state.

BOA who is positioned to clinch the APC ticket pledged to implement business-friendly policies that will create an enabling environment for investors, entrepreneurs, and small business owners to thrive.

According to him, “attracting investments and supporting local enterprises remain crucial to boosting economic growth and ensuring job creation for the people of Osun State; this, I will give a priority from day one.”

He further emphasized the promotion of a digital economy and the expansion of IT-related jobs, stressing that technology-driven empowerment will open opportunities for the youth, improve the State’s IGR and position the State for global business relationships.

He therefore assured that wealth creation through strategic empowerment programmes will be a key priority in his administration, as he works to build a more inclusive and prosperous Osun.

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo The immediate past Deputy Governor of Osun State and leading governorship Aspirant for the 2026 gubernatorial election, Benedict Olugboyega Alabi (BOA), has reiterated his commitment to

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Welding Institute Moves to Flush Out Fake Members

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

The Nigerian Institute of Welding (NIW) has commenced moves to flush out alleged impersonators parading themselves as members of the professional group.

The Secretary of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of NIW, Chief Solomon Edebiri, in a statement issued yesterday assured them that the Institute was set to apply the full weight of the law on the alleged impersonators.

He disclosed that the annual general meeting (AGM) of the Institute slated for the last quarter of the year at its national headquarters in Benin City, Edo State, would take decisive steps to put an end to cases of impersonation of membership of the Institute.

“The NIW is planning its annual general meeting (AGM) for the last quarter of the year. And it will be at the Institute’s headquarters in Benin-city, Edo State. It will address a lot of issues, including infiltration of the institute by non-financial members, abuse of powers by non-members and a lot of related illegal activities by dismissed staff of the Institute,” he stated.

While noting that the AGM would x-ray activities of the Institute in the last three years, Chief Edebiri maintained that it would also look into erring members and decisions it would come up with to sanction those denigrating the name of the Institute.

He said in the last three years, NIW had trained about 60 welding accessors, internal and external quality assurance officers and several others, stressing that the institute was working assiduously to ensure that sufficient internationally certified welders were available to meet the local needs of the industrial sector.

Edebiri disclosed that some of the trainings were in collaboration with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) while the Institute also funded some of the exercises.

“We are pushing to train more accessors in the industry. We want the country to be well grounded in welding in line with the international framework,” he added.

Edebiri said the body was working with the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology to train welding coordinators across the country, noting that they were done with the South-west and the South-south zones.

“We are working on the South-east zone and then we will proceed to the northern regions. The federal government wants to equip every zone with competent welding coordinators that are certified under the International Institute of Welding.

“Our focus is to build a strong capacity for the country in terms of Control, Quality Assurance, and Quality Control in terms of welding operations in the industry. We are pushing for other activities in collaboration with government interventionist agencies,” he said.

Chief Edebiri debunked the alleged AGM of the institute held at the PTI Conference Centre in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State recently, emphasising that such impersonations by some persons were matters that would be addressed at the coming AGM billed for last quarter of the year in Edo State.

Sylvester Idowu in Warri The Nigerian Institute of Welding (NIW) has commenced moves to flush out alleged impersonators parading themselves as members of the professional group. The Secretary of the Board

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FCCPC Warns Kano Traders against Adulteration, Harmful Chemicals

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned Kano State traders against adulteration of food products with dangerous additives and preservatives chemicals such as bromate, Sudan red colorant, sniper, formalin, among others.

The Executive Vice Chairman of the agency, Mr. Tunji Bello, issued the warning at a one-day sensitisation campaign on food quality standards, safety, regulation, and fair business practices, organised for the business community in Kano yesterday.

He explained that food is not merely for sustenance or a commodity, but a fundamental human right, emphasizing that access to safe, unadulterated, nutritious food is a key pillar of public health, economic development, and national security.

Bello, represented by the Director of Quality Assurance and Development, Dr. Nkechi Mba, said issues of food quality standards, safety, and fair business practices are more pressing than ever, “but we continue to witness alarming trends like: ‘The forceful ripening of fruits using harmful chemicals such as calcium carbide, which contains trace amounts of arsenic and phosphorus both of which are highly toxic to humans’.

“Adulteration of food products with dangerous additives and preservatives chemicals such as bromate, Sudan red colorant, sniper, formalin, among others.

“Improper handling and contamination across the food value chain, from farm to table such as poor storage conditions, unhygienic environment, poor waste disposal, exposure of food stuffs to flies, insects and rodents among others.”

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned Kano State traders against adulteration of food products with dangerous additives and preservatives chemicals such as bromate,

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Hamza Madagali Takes Over as PDP Chairman in Adamawa

Daji Sani in Yola

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Adamawa State has sworn in its new executive committee members, with Hamza Madagali emerging as the chairman. The ceremony took place in Yola, marking a new chapter for the party in the state.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, represented by his Deputy, Prof Kaletapwa Farauta attended the swearing-in event, underscoring the government’s connection with the party. The governor’s representative expressed optimism, saying Madagali’s leadership would bring fresh dynamics to the PDP in Adamawa.

Other key officials of new executive committee are: Saleh Mohammed Musa Shelleng as State Secretary, Barr. Ishaku Y. Daniel as Legal Adviser, Bature Moses as Auditor, Titus Samaila as Organising Secretary, and Victor Dogo as Publicity Secretary, alongside others.

Farauta urged the new chairman to foster collaboration with party stakeholders, promote peace, unity, and inclusiveness within the party. This, it was noted, would help strengthen the PDP’s structure.

The professor also appealed to Madagali to reach out to aggressive members of the PDP across the state and encourage them to return to the party fold, promoting reconciliation.

She appreciated the outgoing chairman, Barrister AT Shehu, for his efforts in building and developing the party during his tenure. The transition to the new leadership was noted to be smooth.

While speaking the newly inaugurated chairman Madagali, expressed gratitude to God, Governor Fintiri, and PDP stakeholders for trusting him with the leadership of the party in Adamawa State. He pledged to provide good leadership.

Madagali’s leadership is anticipated to enhance the party’s relationships with members and boost its standing in the state. With Governor Fintiri’s support, the PDP aims for greater achievements.

Daji Sani in Yola The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Adamawa State has sworn in its new executive committee members, with Hamza Madagali emerging as the chairman. The ceremony took place

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Ekiti Cargo Airport Receives NCAA Approval for Commercial Operations

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

The federal government has given the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport approval to commence scheduled flight operations (otherwise known as commercial flights) effectively from October 4, 2025.

The development follows the expiration of the initial approval for a non-scheduled flight approval for the airport by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in December 2024 and compliance with regulatory requirements.

The NCAA in the letter dated October 3, 2025, addressed to the state Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, confirmed the new approval for scheduled flight. The approval will be for an initial period of six months.

According to the letter with reference number: NCAA/DAAS/TECH//043/Vol. 1/158 and signed by the Director, Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Godwin Balang, the validation inspection was conducted on the airport between June 16 and 19, 2025.

“The outcome revealed that the basic operational requirements for scheduled flight operations to Ado-Ekiti Airport have been significantly complied with and the instrument flight check validation report conducted by NAMA indicates satisfactory compliance with regulatory requirements.

“In view of the above and in line with the provisions of Nig CARs Part 12 Vol. 1, 2023, I have been directed to convey the Authority’s Interim Operational Permit subject to the limitations of VFR or daylight (sunrise to sunset) operations.

“Furthermore, Your Excellency is respectfully invited to note that this interim Operational Permit is to enable Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport implement outstanding gaps and commence the certification process which will allow for issuance of Aerodrome Operational Permit with three years validity in accordance with the Nig.CARS Part 12 Vol.1,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the Ekiti State Government is in the advanced stage of installing the Instrument Landing System (ILS) to position the airport for night and all weather operations.

Governor Oyebanji has hailed the development as a major boost to the economic development of the state, adding that the commencement of commercial operations at the airport would boost agribusiness, tourism development, commercial activities, and medical tourism, which will further position the state as a destination of choice for people looking for where to live, work, invest and relax.

The governor thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the enabling environment for socioeconomic development at the national and subnational levels.

He also thanked his immediate predecessor in office, Governor Kayode Fayemi, who laid the foundation of the airport project in 2019.

He also thanked the Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), for his remarkable contributions to the airport project as well as members of the Airport Committee.

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti The federal government has given the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport approval to commence scheduled flight operations (otherwise known as commercial flights) effectively from October 4,

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Nnaji: My Resignation Not Admission of Guilt

The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, says his resignation from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet is not an admission of guilt but a personal choice.

Nnaji, who was appointed in August 2023, announced his resignation in a letter to the President on Tuesday, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to serve.

This is contained in a statement he signed in Abuja.

Nnaji was appointed as minister by the administration of President Bola Tinubu in August 2023, but resigned amidst controversies surrounding allegations of certificate forgery.

He noted that over the past week, an orchestrated, sustained campaign of falsehood, politically motivated, and malicious attacks was waged against him across print, electronic and social media platforms.

He said these unfounded allegations and media distortions not only caused personal distress but also distracted him from work.

According to him, he put in five decades building a reputation anchored on hard work, honour and service to humanity.

He said he could not, in good conscience, allow these distortions to cast a shadow over the noble objectives of the present administration.

“My decision to step aside is therefore a personal choice, not an admission of guilt. It is a principled decision to respect the sanctity of due process and to preserve the integrity of the judicial proceedings currently before the court, ” he said.

Nnaji expressed optimism that in the end, justice will vindicate the just.

The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, says his resignation from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet is not an admission of guilt but a personal choice. Nnaji, who was

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Saraki, Gambari, Ihedioha, Others Pay Tributes to Adebayo

•My father knew he would be arrested by Abacha, says daughter

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

A former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, former Chief of Staff to the President Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, Senator Dayo Adeyeye, former Minister of Information, Frank Nweke and the Director General of National Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, were among other dignitaries that paid tributes to the former Governor of Kwara state, late Chief Cornelius Adebayo on Tuesday in Abuja.

Adebayo, born February 24, 1941 died on June 25, 2025.

Speaking, Gambari said Adebayo was his senior by two years at Ilorin Provincial School.

He described the former NADECO leader as his mentor, even though the age gap between them was three years.

According to him, One thing he taught me was — I used to be very rascally in school, but he called me and said look, you have to pipe down because when you misbehave, they would say it’s because you are a member of the royal family. He taught me humility.

Gambari recalled that when Gov. Adamu Attah was standing for re-election, he entreated him not to rig because he said he would win the election if it was not rigged.

“Third, when a new Emir was chosen — my cousin, he said Agboola, you are very lucky that I was not governor when Sulu Ganbari died because the next thing you would have heard on radio was that you have been made the Emir of Ilorin. He was that jovial. He was honest and principled,” he said.

Also, Saraki said they must remember a man who gave up a lot as sacrifices for this democracy that the country is enjoying.

He added that he was courageous and wasn’t afraid to speak to power.

Speaking, his daughter, Oloruntoyosi Ebun said her father knew he would be arrested by the Abacha regime.

She stated: “During the tense days of NADECO, the main pro-democracy coalition of the 1990s that fought against military dictatorship and for the validation of the June 12, 1993 mandate. Daddy gathered us for a family meeting. He told us plainly: “Any day, they may come for me. I may go out and never return.”

“It was chilling. But it was Daddy’s way of preparing us. From then on, whenever he stepped out, he carried a small bag with clothes and toiletries, ready for arrest.

“Many evenings when he came home, we would joke, “Daddy, congratulations, you made it back!” Until the day they finally took him. Painful, yes, but not as unbearable as it might have been, because he had prepared us.”

Oloruntoyosi stressed that her father was not a man who chased power for its sake; saying he bore power like a burden, always mindful that it was service to God and to people.

She added: “ That was why, whether in the State House, the Senate chambers, or the Federal Cabinet, his word carried weight. People knew he could not be bought; he could not be bent. He stood on principle. Always.

“Even towards the end of his life, that spirit of preparation remained. In Abuja, he gathered us, spoke to us, guided us, and made sure we knew his heart. He even told us the picture that should be placed on the condolence table after his passing.

“He told Pastor Sam the song to sing at his wake keep service. He had already thought about everything. He wanted to ease our pain. He wanted us ready.”

•My father knew he would be arrested by Abacha, says daughter Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja A former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, former Chief of Staff to the

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Tony Elemelu Foundation, RHI Empower 500 Women in Edo

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-city

The Renewed Hope Initiative of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in conjunction with the Tony Elemelu Foundation Women Economic Empowerment has given grants of N50,000 each to 500 women in Edo State.

The presentation of the grants to the beneficial women was performed at the Festival Hall of the Government House, in Benin-city at the weekend.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Tinubu, the founder of Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), said the gesture was aimed at supporting the entrepreneurial spirit of market women, trader,s, and small-scale businesses who wake up each day determined to provide for their families, educate their children, and uplift the communities.

Senator Tinubu, who was represented by the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, emphasised that the empowerment money is not a loan but a grant to help the women recapitalise their existing businesses.

She also thanked the Tony Elemelu Foundation for donating the sum of N1 billion to the Renewed Hope Initiative to directly carry out this gesture of supporting 18,000 women across the 36 states and FCT.

Tinubu said: “This economic empowerment programme is about supporting the entrepreneurial spirit of the women, traders,, and small-scale owners who wake up each day determined to provide for their families, educate their children, and uplift their communities.

“Let me emphasize that this is not a loan. It is a grant and seed of renewed hope to help you recapitalise your existing businesses,” Senator Tinu said, adding that she believes that when women are empowered, a community, and indeed a nation,is also uplifted.

Thanking the Tony Elemelu Foundation,,who donated the sum of N1 billion to the Renewed Hope Initiative, she declared: “This gesture has helped to support 18,000 women across the nation. 500 women,, each from the 36 statess and the FCT,, will receive N50,000 each to strengthen and recapitalise their existing small business.”

Presenting the money to each of the beneficiaries, she implored othegood-spiriteded Nigerians to emulate the act of generosity inspired by the Tony Elemelu Foundation, the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the office of the first lady of Edo State for providing their support in executing all programmes of RHI.

One of the beneficiaries, Otaru Patience, said the grant would go a long way in boosting her business, and thanked the Oluremi Tinubu, Tony Elemelu Foundation,, and Edo State first lady for empowering women in the state.

Another beneficiary, Adesuwa Obasogie, described the grant as timely,, just as she appealed that the money should be increased in the face of the current economic reality of the country.

The event had in attendance government functionaries, including Mrs. Taiwo Inumidune, chairperson, National Council of Women Society, Edo State chapter; Sally Suleiman, SA Sustainable Development Goals SDG; Mrs. Barbara Omozele Agbebaku,, among others.

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-city The Renewed Hope Initiative of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in conjunction with the Tony Elemelu Foundation Women Economic Empowerment has given grants of N50,000 each

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Uche Nnaji, Tinubu’s Minister Accused of Certificate Forgery, Quits

•President accepts his resignation

•Premium Times: How minister’s own letters countered his graduation claim

•Records showed he failed a virology course — MCB 431AB, made two unsuccessful attempts to re-sit the examination

Deji Elumoye and Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, yesterday, accepted the resignation of Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, following allegations of multiple certificate forgery against him.

Nnaji had been in the eye of the storm, which gathered over alleged inconsistencies with his first degree certificate from the University of Nigeria (UNN), Nsukka, that he tendered for screening by the National Assembly as a ministerial candidate over two years ago.

Tinubu appointed Nnaji in August 2023.

According to a release issued by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Nnaji resigned “today in a letter thanking the president for allowing him to serve Nigeria”.

However, the minister, in the resignation letter, said he had been the target of blackmail by political opponents.

Tinubu thanked him for his service and wished him well in his future endeavours, the statement said.

Before Nnaji threw in the towel, fresh evidence had emerged confirming that the academic credentials with which he secured his appointment in 2023 could not have been genuine.

A Premium Times investigative report revealed that while Nnaji gained admission into UNN in 1981 to study Microbiology/Biochemistry, he dropped out without completing his studies. Despite this, Nnaji emerged on the political scene in the past years claiming to have graduated from the institution with Second-Class Honours, Lower Division, in July 1985.

But documents seen by Premium Times showed that at the time Nnaji claimed to have graduated from UNN and purportedly proceeded to participate in the mandatory national youth service, he was still exchanging correspondence with the institution on how he could re-sit a failed terminal course examination.

The records showed that Nnaji failed a virology course — MCB 431AB — and subsequently made two unsuccessful attempts to re-sit the examination.

The university’s registrar, through a letter dated November 8, 1985, informed him that he failed the course in the round of September 1985 supplementary examinations, and advised him on the steps he needed to take to have a re-sit.

The letter was sent to him about four months after he claimed to have completed his studies and graduated from the university, the Premium Times report showed.

“I regret to inform you that the result of the 1984/85 September Supplementary examination results show that you have not made the required grade in the 1985 September supplementary examination in the following course — MCB 431 A -Virology,” the registrar’s letter read.

“If you wish to take the June 1986 examination as is provided by the University of Nigeria academic regulations, you are required to notify the registrar through your Head of Department with a proof of payment of examination fee of N4 (four naira),” it stated.

Responding through a January 3, 1986 letter, Nnaji, according to the Premium Times report, formally notified the registrar of his intention to retake the course, stating that he had paid the required N4 fee. Yet, he failed to appear for the rescheduled exam.

In another letter dated May 19, 1986 and addressed to the registrar, Nnaji attributed his absence from the examination to ill health and requested another re-sit opportunity during the September 1986 supplementary examinations. A copy of the letter seen by Premium Times indicated that his medical report was attached to support his claim.

“Due to ill health, I was unable to take the outstanding terminal course MCB 431 AB-virology which took place on the 21st of April 1986,” he wrote at the time. “I, therefore, pray that you grant me, Sir, the opportunity to do so during the supplementary examinations.”

The correspondence punctured Nnaji’s claim that he graduated from UNN in July 1985, the report showed.

More than 10 months after he claimed to have graduated, as of May 1986, he was still scrambling to re-sit an outstanding crucial course examination.

An October 2, 2025 letter from the university’s Vice Chancellor, Simon Ortuanya, in response to Premium Times’ Freedom of Information request, showed that Nnaji did not return to complete the outstanding course.

The investigation raised fundamental inconsistencies in Nnaji’s academic and service records.

For example, the notification of result he tendered claims he graduated in July 1985 with Second Class (Lower Division), while his purported National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate indicates he commenced service in April 1985 — months before he purportedly completed his studies.

Both documents, according to the Premium Times investigation, stood in stark contrast to the correspondence he exchanged with UNN’s registrar between 1985 and 1986, showing he had yet to pass the outstanding terminal virology course crucial to his graduation from the university.

Allegations of certificate forgery had dogged Nnaji since July 2023, when Tinubu named him among the first batch of 28 ministerial nominees from 25 states forwarded to the senate as part of the president’s initial cabinet list, two months after taking office on May 29, 2023.

Besides, critics had long insisted that Nnaji did not complete his university education and that both the Bachelor’s degree and NYSC certificates he presented to Tinubu, as well as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Department of State Services (DSS), and Senate, were forged, the Premium Times report showed.

•President accepts his resignation •Premium Times: How minister’s own letters countered his graduation claim •Records showed he failed a virology course — MCB 431AB, made two unsuccessful attempts to re-sit

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Dangote Vs PENGASSAN: Sanusi, Kukah, Oteh, Peterside, Others Wade In, Say Unionism Not Licence to Cripple Economy

•Maintain strikes may discourage investments

•Want protection, fair treatment of workers

•ACF BoT chair condemns ‘deliberate’ sabotage of refinery

•NUPENG attacks Oshiomhole over alleged anti-labour remarks

•NLC: Shettima’s position on PENGASSAN, Dangote face-off troubling

Emmanuel Addeh and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja and John Shiklam in Kaduna

Several eminent Nigerians yesterday intervened in the recent face-off between the Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), stressing that workers’ right to organise should not be overstretched to cripple the Nigerian economy.

In a joint statement by the concerned Nigerians, they also stated that the welfare of workers should not be left on the back burner of corporate goals, maintaining that no enterprise can succeed without motivated and fairly treated workers.

The statement was signed by Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II, Sarkin Kano; Bishop Matthew Kukah; Arunma Oteh; Osita Chidoka ; Atedo Peterside; Senator Sola Akinyede; and Opeyemi Adamolekun.

Other signatories were: Abubakar Siddique Mohammed; Aisha Yesufu; Dr. Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman; Dudu Mamman Manuga; Ibrahim Dahiru Waziri and Obonganwan Barbara Etim James.

The group noted with concern the recent disputes and disruptions surrounding the Dangote Refinery, emphasising that although the immediate crisis has been de-escalated through government mediation and renewed dialogue between labour and management, the episode raises important lessons for Nigeria’s economic future.

For decades, the eminent Nigerians said the nation has endured the collapse of government-owned refineries, the waste of trillions of naira in subsidies, and dependence on fuel imports.

These failures left citizens exposed to scarcity, inflation, and insecurity, they said, noting that in this context, the Dangote Refinery represents more than a private venture, but a national symbol of what bold domestic investment can achieve.

“Already, the refinery has begun to ease supply pressures, with petrol prices in some parts of the country dropping from around N1,500 per litre to about N820 — a 55 per cent reduction. This impact on transport costs and food prices offers Nigerians a glimpse of how local productivity can improve daily life. It also signals to investors at home and abroad that industry, rather than speculation, can still thrive in Nigeria.

“However, the strikes and threats that accompanied this transition send the wrong signals. Industrial disputes, if not carefully managed, risk discouraging both domestic and foreign investment at a time when Nigeria most needs capital and innovation. A refinery of this scale is a national lifeline, with profound consequences for jobs, energy security, and inflation.

“We wish to underscore three principles: Workers’ rights must be respected. The Constitution guarantees the right to organise and to demand fair treatment. No enterprise can succeed without motivated, fairly treated workers.

“Markets and productivity must be protected. The right to organise cannot become a license to hold the economy hostage. Productive enterprises that lower costs and create jobs must be safeguarded.

“Social responsibility and accountability must remain central. Investors of this magnitude must operate transparently, uphold fair labour practices, and reinvest in the communities they serve,” the statement noted.

Besides, the signatories noted that concerns about monopoly or market dominance should not be settled by disruptive industrial action, explaining that Nigeria has institutions, such as the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), that are mandated to assess such claims.

Where there are legitimate issues of pricing or dominance, the proper channel, they argued, is through these statutory bodies, not strikes that harm ordinary Nigerians.

“Moreover, as has been noted, there is no legal monopoly here; others are free to invest in refining, provided they can mobilise the necessary resources and expertise,” the group pointed out.

It commended the federal government, labour unions, and Dangote Refinery for stepping back from confrontation and resolving the dispute through dialogue, urging that this spirit of constructive engagement becomes a template for the future.

At the same time, it stressed the dangers that such disruptions pose to investor confidence, economic stability, and Nigeria’s strategic interest in reducing dependency on imports.

“This crisis is not about a refinery or any other business. It is about the direction of our economy: whether we will continue in a cycle of scarcity and rent-seeking or build a future anchored in productivity, fairness, and shared prosperity.

“The Dangote refinery represents an audacious step forward. It should not be undermined but strengthened — as a signal to other industrialists that investing in Nigeria’s future is worthwhile,” they wrote.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has expressed dismay at the recent comments made by Senator Adams Oshiomhole on national TV, describing it as a reprehensible assault on the fundamental rights of Nigerian workers and a gross distortion of established labour laws.

The leadership of NUPENG said that it has declared Senator Adams Oshiomhole persona non grata within the ranks of Nigerian oil and gas workers for the ‘undistinguished’ denunciation of the PENGASSAN strike against the ‘unjustifiable’ sack of 800 engineers as punishment for exercising the fundamental right of unionism.

The union said that henceforth, it will not participate in or lend legitimacy to any event featuring Oshiomhole.

A statement jointly signed by NUPENG president, Williams Akporeha and General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, accused Oshiomhole of attempting to rationalise the victimisation of workers for exercising their fundamental rights of association and peaceful action.

“We witness with utter disappointment a former labour leader now transformed into a vocal advocate for corporate oppression, actively campaigning against the very rights he once championed.

“His attempts to rationalise the victimisation of workers for exercising their fundamental rights of association and peaceful action are not only nauseating but represent a flagrant misrepresentation of Nigerian Labour Law and International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions.

“First, it is the height of irony that we are compelled to ask whether the description of Senator Oshiomhole allegedly by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, at a dinner organised by Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC) during one of its Delegates Conference as ‘a Comrade in the morning and a politician by night’ is true.

“If former President Obasanjo’s description of Senator Oshiomhole is true, we are compelled to ask if such a person qualifies to lecture anyone on strategy and/or morality,” said NUPENG.

The union wondered how a person who once advised alleged corrupt politicians to join the APC to have their sins forgiven has the effrontery to sermonise on morality.

“It also speaks volumes to the character of Senator Oshiomhole claiming falsely to have relinquished his position as General Secretary of National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria (NUTGTWN) upon becoming NLC President.

“It is beyond controversy that Mr. Adams Oshiomhole held on to the positions of NLC President and General Secretary of NUTGWN from 1999-2007, and he did not relinquish the position of the General Secretary until 2008, one full year after leaving NLC Presidency,” it said.

NUPENG said that it is a pathological tendency on the part of the senator to rewrite history to suit his current reactionary advocacy for the unconscionable capitalists who are not prepared to accommodate trade unions, in preference for slave labour.

Regarding the issue of unionisation, NUPENG said that Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every person, meaning citizens and foreigners (not only citizens) in Nigeria, the right to freedom of association and assembly.

“The mass dismissal of workers for unionising is a blatant violation of these core international standards, which have become constitutional provisions by virtue of Section 254C (1) & (2) of the 1999 Constitution,” it said.

Also, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, has condemned what he described as the deliberate sabotage of the Dangote Refinery.

Speaking at the meeting of the BoT held yesterday in Kaduna, he said the ongoing crisis at the newly completed facility is “deeply unfathomable and unacceptable.” Dalhatu accused “unpatriotic unions backed by hidden cabals” of trying to destroy a strategic national asset.

He said: “These people must be told in no uncertain terms that they are working on behalf of the enemies of Nigeria and Nigerians, the living and the generations yet unborn.”

He called on the federal government to take urgent and decisive action to defend the refinery, which he described as a symbol of economic hope.

Besides, he commended the Nigerian armed forces and other security agencies for the fight against insurgency and banditry in the North. He, however, urged the military high command to continue reviewing its strategies to reduce casualties and stay ahead of emerging threats.

Dalhatu also expressed serious concern over recent incidents where senior ACF officials at both national and state levels issued conflicting statements to the media. He said: “The ACF today stands in great need of a firm protocol that should guide and regulate the manner in which officials speak about our affairs.”

The meeting also reviewed preparations for the upcoming Silver Jubilee celebration of the forum, scheduled to hold in Kaduna from November 20 to 22, 2025.

According to Dalhatu, the celebration will mark a major milestone for the ACF and serve as an opportunity to reposition it for future impact.

The meeting also noted the proliferation of parallel groups in northern Nigeria and warned that the creation of splinter organisations with similar objectives to the ACF was undermining the unity and voice of the region.

“Our strength lies in our unity, in pooling resources together and in speaking with one voice on all matters affecting our people,” Dalhatu said.

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Dalhatu reaffirmed the forum’s strict non-partisan stance, even as individual members may hold political affiliations. He said: “Although ACF members may belong to political parties of their choice, as an organisation, ACF is politically non-partisan and would not support one party over the other.”

He added that the forum will continue to advocate for viable democracy, good governance, and the unity of Nigeria.

Still on labour issues, the NLC has said that no company, no matter how big, strategic or well-connected, can be allowed to operate outside the law of the land.

It said that one of the major responsibilities of trade unions remains the protection of workers and their rights not just in Nigeria but across the world.

A statement signed by the NLC president, Joe Ajaero, described the position of Vice President, Kashim Shettima on the recent PENGASSAN – Dangote refinery face-off as deeply troubling.

“We state unequivocally to Vice President Shettima; No company, no matter how big, ‘strategic,’ or well-connected, can operate outside the law or be bigger than Nigeria. If the Dangote Refinery is to be granted rights and privileges over and above the law, then the government must be prepared for the storms that such an injustice will inevitably unleash. There can be no peace without justice.

“We condemn in the strongest terms this deeply troubling statement by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, that the Dangote Group is a “national asset” and insinuating therefore that it should be exempt from obeying the nation’s labour laws.

“This statement is not only an affront to the rule of law but a national tragedy. It is a public declaration that capital, when sufficiently concentrated, is above the law, that money is sovereign and can undermine decent work principles,” the NLC said.

The NLC accused the Dangote Group of brazenly violating the rights of its workers to freedom of association and right to join the trade union of their choice; “a right guaranteed by our Constitution, the Trade Union Act, the Labour Act and core ILO Conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory.”

In the message to mark World Decent Work Day, NLC said that suppression of workers’ rights and the proliferation of indecent work create a low-productivity, high-exploitation economy, perpetuating poverty and social unrest.

While justifying the action taken by PENGASSAN in its dispute with Dangote, NLC said the company cannot be allowed to undermine the rights of its workers the way it did.

It said that Dangote Group is about setting a dangerous precedent, adding that contractors constructing NLNG Train 7 in Bonny Rivers state seem to have borrowed a leaf from Dangote and have sacked thousands of workers on the site and replaced them with Asians.

•Maintain strikes may discourage investments •Want protection, fair treatment of workers •ACF BoT chair condemns ‘deliberate’ sabotage of refinery •NUPENG attacks Oshiomhole over alleged anti-labour remarks •NLC: Shettima’s position on