… Pledges Commitment To The Oil Sector Reform
The Nigerian’s President and the APC presidential standard bearer for 2019 general elections, Muhammadu Buhari has yesterday affirmed commitment to Nigeria’s various reforms, saying he would not hesitate to sign his consent to the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill (PIGB), as soon as it is presented by the National Assembly as it is pivotal to tickling the economy to a large extent.
The President who was represented by the Minister of Labour and Empowerment, Sen. Chris Ngige, at the 40th anniversary of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers,NUPENG, held in Abuja yesterday, pleaded with the workers of the oil and Gas sector to cooperate maximally with his administration to enable deliverability of his promises to the sector. He also assured the workers that when the PIGB is signed into law, it would ultimately address major challenges befalling the Oil and Gas Sector over time.
The President, who lauded the workers for their indefatigable efforts towards the progress made so far in the sector,further stressed the need for the employees to cooperate with his administration to ensure continuous commitment to the needs of the sector. As his administration will fulfill the promise of continual commitment to the various reforms of the Oil and Gas sector. He (President Muhammadu Buhari) however, encouraged the employees to always seek dialogue alternative, rather than the popular practice of closing down the country in dissenting times with employers.
Williams Akporeha, NUPENG President, lamenting the insouciant treatment inflicting on the workers by Companies, said “He is a President that respects the rule of law and the law of the land. He promised to sign the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill once it is brought to him.” adding that the union would always fight for better working condition of its members.
He said: “The enormous challenges confronting our union, especially with regards to the employers, government and general public perception of our enormous powers, influence and ever constant solidarity.
“We know that most often. Many employers are scared of relating with us and this wrong perception is sometimes responsible for the hostile attitude to our efforts in organizing their employees.
“In the light of this realization, our administration will embark on massive public image polishing and mending relationship with all perceived aggrieved stakeholders.
‘’Our new mission is to ensure prosperity and good returns for everyone in the industry. We pledge to be more cooperative and collaborative in our dealings but without compromising on the best interest of our members and global labour best practices.
“We have further resolved to be more open and engaging in social dialogue with all stakeholders. We urge everyone, government, employers and the general public to know that we are fully committed to rendering efficient, effective and public/stakeholders friendly services to our dear country and its citizens”.
