The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has raised the alarm over the potential economic fallout of the ongoing strike action by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), describing it as an act that borders on economic sabotage.
Strike Action Could Derail Economic Stability
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, NECA’s Director-General, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, said while trade unions have the constitutional right to protest and strike, such actions must not endanger national economic stability, investor confidence, or enterprise survival.
“Disputes should be resolved through statutory institutions like the Industrial Arbitration Panel (IAP) and the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN),” Oyerinde stated.
He warned that coercing employers, disrupting lawful business operations, or crippling critical energy infrastructure contradicted international labour conventions and posed a serious risk to national security.
Call for Responsible Labour Engagement
Oyerinde stressed that Nigeria’s fragile economic recovery must not be sacrificed on the altar of reckless industrial action. He argued that unions must exercise their rights responsibly, within legal boundaries, and with consideration for long-term economic growth.
“Standards for decent work do not legitimise sabotage, coercion, or actions that harm the very workers unions claim to protect,” he emphasized.
Appeal to Government and Labour Ministry
NECA urged the Minister of Labour and Employment and other relevant authorities to intervene swiftly into the PENGASSAN Strike, cautioning that delays in resolving the dispute could damage:
- Job creation efforts
- Foreign and local investment flows
- National economic stability
Oyerinde warned that Nigeria could ill afford another disruption in the oil and gas sector, given its critical role in powering industries, driving exports, and sustaining government revenue.
Why It Matters
The oil and gas industry remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, and disruptions have a ripple effect on power supply, manufacturing, fuel distribution, and foreign exchange earnings. Analysts fear that an extended strike could further strain the national grid, increase fuel scarcity, and trigger inflationary pressures at a time when the economy is already struggling.
