Category: Nigerian Tribune

Anambra State Government has declared Tuesday a public holiday for school children to celebrate and honor teachers in the state.

In a statement issued in Awka on Monday, the State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, explained that the school-free day on Tuesday is designed to celebrate teachers who have contributed significantly to shaping the future of the state.

According to the statement, the Solution Parents League will hold a mega endorsement march to express appreciation for Governor Soludo’s revolution in the education sector.

The statement further noted that the Association of Private School Owners will join the Solution Parents League in the endorsement march to show their support for Soludo’s educational reforms.

‘In view of the fact that the 2025 World Teachers’ Day falls on a Sunday, the State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has approved Tuesday as a school-free day to celebrate and honor teachers in the state.

‘Furthermore, the Solution Parents League will organize a mega endorsement march in appreciation of Soludo’s revolution in the education sector.

‘The Association of Private School Owners will join the Solution Parents League for the endorsement march.

‘Accordingly, all teachers, parents, and proprietors/proprietresses are expected to assemble at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, by 8:00 a.m. prompt to give honor where honor is due.’ the statement concluded.

Nigeria must create at least 27 million new formal jobs within the next five years or face a potential doubling of unemployment and underemployment to 30 per cent, the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has warned.

In its Jobs and Productivity Report, released on Monday during the ongoing NES#31 in Abuja, the NESG outlined an urgent roadmap for employment creation and productivity growth, describing the next half-decade as critical for stabilising the country’s labour market and achieving inclusive economic growth.

‘Jobs and productivity are central to Nigeria’s economic development,’ the report stated. With the working-age population projected to reach 168 million by 2030, the country faces a defining challenge: to create 27 million new formal jobs or risk unemployment and underemployment rates doubling to 30 per cent,’ the NESG report states.

The report emphasised that sustainable job creation must be anchored on economic transformation and productivity growth, calling for bold policy measures that stimulate enterprise, attract private investments, and address long-standing structural weaknesses.

It identified several key obstacles to employment expansion, including a shallow private sector base, skills mismatch, a weak education system, and jobless growth patterns that have limited the capacity of industries to absorb Nigeria’s growing youth population.

The NESG also highlighted regulatory bottlenecks and infrastructure deficits as major constraints to business competitiveness, urging the government to implement comprehensive reforms to unlock private sector-led growth.

According to the group, tackling the jobs challenge will require coordinated efforts across sectors, particularly in manufacturing, agriculture, digital technology, and services, to build a resilient economy capable of providing decent work for millions of Nigerians.

The NESG noted that Nigeria’s weak productive foundation, hampered by infrastructure deficits, inconsistent policies, and widespread informality, necessitates a focus on industrialisation and enterprise development, particularly for job-creating MSMEs.

It highlighted that transforming this landscape is crucial for economic advancement.

Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has stated that the power sector revenue is expected to exceed N2 trillion at the end of the year from the N1.7 trillion recorded in 2024.

Adelabu, who revealed this on Monday while speaking on the topic ‘Uninterrupted Power: The Industrial Imperative’, at the 31st edition of the Nigeria Economic Summit in Abuja, said the increase was as a result of the new tariff regime introduced by the present administration.

Speaking on commercialisation, Adelabu said the government is deepening power sector to strengthen revenue, liquidity and investor confidence.

He said, ‘Through tariff policy reforms which enabled cost-reflective tariffs for select consumers, supply reliability has improved while reducing energy costs for industries, and industry revenue has increased by 70% to ?1.7 trillion in 2024 compared to previous year and the revenue is expected to exceed ?2 trillion for 2025.’ He said to stabilize the market, President Bola Tinubu has approved a ?4 trillion bond to clear verified Generation Company (GenCo) and gas supply debts adding that a targeted subsidy framework is being developed to protect vulnerable households and ensure a sustainable path toward full commercialization and viable industry.

He added that the Federal Government as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is intensifying broad-based reforms across the power sector value chain to improve supply especially to the industrial clusters such as Lagos, Enugu, Port-Harcourt, Kaduna, Kano, Ajaokuta.

In the area of infrastructure development, Adelabu said the Federal Government has introduced targeted national programs aimed at accelerating the viability, expansion and modernization of the national grid.

‘Under the phase zero of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), we enhanced transmission capacity, grid stability and overall system reliability, with over 700MW of additional transmission capacity already achieved.

‘Under Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) Phase One, contracts have been signed with Siemens Energy, CMEC, Elswedy Electric and Power China. Financing arrangements are underway to support implementation. Phase one is planned to add 7000MW operational capacity to the grid,’ he said.

The minister stated that in parallel to the grid expansion, generation capacity is being expanded through the rehabilitation of existing NIPP plants to unlock about 345MW alongside the successful integration of the 700MW Zungeru Hydropower Plant into the grid as the efforts have helped sustain an average generation capacity of approximately 5,300MW in 2024 up from 4,200MW recorded in 2023.

Speaking further, Adelabu said the Federal Government has operationalized the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI) to close the national metering gap and improve sector viability as revealed that ?700 billion has been secured from FAAC to deploy 1.1 million meters by end of 2025, and 2 million annually over the next five years under the PMI.

‘This complements the 3.2 million meters being procured through the World Bank’s DISREP program, positioning Nigeria to close the metering gap within five years and strengthen transparency and revenue assurance across the value chain,’ the minister said.

Leadway, one of Nigeria’s foremost non-banking financial services and wellbeing providers, is marking its 55th anniversary with renewed commitment to innovation, financial inclusion, and regional expansion across West Africa.

Founded in 1970 as an insurance company, the group has grown into a diversified conglomerate with services spanning life and general insurance, health coverage, pensions, asset and wealth management, estate planning, hospitality, and credit solutions.

Over the decades, Leadway has positioned itself as a key player in helping individuals and businesses build resilient financial futures.

‘Leadway’s journey is, in many ways, the story of Nigeria itself, one of resilience, diversity, and progress,’ said Tunde Hassan-Odukale, Group Managing Director of Leadway Holdings.

‘We began with the mission of providing succour and financial freedom through risk management, and today that mission has expanded into building a holistic ecosystem that serves millions across the continent,’ Hassan-Odukale added.

The group’s reputation for reliability is underpinned by its claims record; between 2016 and 2024, Leadway paid out nearly ?500 billion in claims, including ?117 billion last year alone, reinforcing its standing as Nigeria’s most consistent claims-paying insurer.

Through its Health Maintenance Organisation (HMO) subsidiary, Leadway provides healthcare access to millions of Nigerians via a network of more than 2,500 partner hospitals nationwide.

Its pensions and asset management businesses continue to secure retirement benefits and build wealth portfolios for countless Nigerians.

Expanding beyond Nigeria, the company has established a strong presence in Côte d’Ivoire through Leadway Assurance, Ankara Services, and Leadway IARD, consolidating its role as a leading non-banking financial group in Francophone West Africa.

Beyond business, Leadway invests in social impact and community development initiatives such as Leadway Media Dash support young entrepreneurs and SMEs by showcasing their businesses on company-owned platforms, while long-standing sponsorship of the Lagos International Trade Fair demonstrates its commitment to commerce and enterprise.

The group also contributes to Nigeria’s creative economy through sponsorships of the Lagos Leather Fair, the Nigerian Pavilion at the London Design Biennale, the +234 Art Fair, and the Creative Bloc Carnival.

Its youth-focused programmes, LeadForward for NYSC members and Campus Connect for university students, promote financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and wellbeing.

In 2024, the company launched Hersurred, a women-focused platform offering mentorship, skills workshops, networking, and annual events to empower women across industries.

As it celebrates 55 years, Leadway says its next chapter will focus on leveraging technology and people-first solutions to deepen financial and social impact.

‘We are committed to creating the next chapter of Africa’s financial services wellbeing powerhouse, offering digital-first solutions that are unparalleled, people-focused, and globally competitive,’ Hassan-Odukale reaffirmed.

In recent times, Nigeria’s macroeconomic trajectory has seen a remarkable turnaround, drawing praise from multilateral agencies, economists, and global investment leaders. The World Bank, Moody’s, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, Governor Alex Otti, and Adebayo Ogunlesi are among the voices recognizing the country’s bold steps toward economic reform and stabilization.

The World Bank’s ‘Building Momentum for Inclusive Growth’ report highlighted a significant improvement in Nigeria’s fiscal outlook. The fiscal deficit has narrowed substantially from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024, a powerful indicator of fiscal discipline and policy coherence. Complementing this development, Moody’s upgraded Nigeria’s credit rating from Caa1 to B3. Fitch also upgraded the country’s rating to B from B- with a stable outlook, further affirming renewed investor confidence and macroeconomic stabilization.

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization, commended the Tinubu administration’s efforts, stating, ‘You can’t really improve an economy unless it’s stable.’

Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, also lent his voice in support, stating: ‘The audacious structural reforms embarked upon by the current administration of HE Bola Ahmed Tinubu have rescued the economy from the tipping point.’

Similarly, Governor Alex Otti, a seasoned banker and former Managing Director of Diamond Bank, acknowledged that while the reforms have been tough, they are essential to placing Nigeria on a sustainable growth path.

Adebayo Ogunlesi, a globally respected investment banker and founding partner at Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) now part of BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, remarked that ‘Nigeria is now a place that is exciting to invest in.’

However, well before the current administration took office in May 2023, AACS a Nigerian consulting firm specializing in strategic disruption and led by Dr. Ayo Abina, had already emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive reforms. In a series of policy briefs and publications but specifically in April 2023, AACS had in its ‘Fortnightly ‘ and media interviews ‘(tinyurl.com/ter6u5jh, tinyurl.com/2s3jybv9,lnkd.in/eiRE9A6S), identified six critical areas and reforms that were a sine qua non to drive Nigeria’s economic recovery and macroeconomic stability:

– Revenue Generation: Implementing fiscal reforms to sustainably increase government revenue

– Oil Subsidy Removal: Phasing out fuel subsidies while cushioning the impact on vulnerable groups

– Exchange Rate Realignment: Allowing the naira to reflect its true market value to improve transparency and investor confidence

– Oil Theft Reduction: Tackling crude oil theft to boost revenue and minimize economic losses

– Infrastructure Development: Specifically investing in power to unlock growth

– Tackling Insecurity: Strengthening security to attract investment and reduce disruptions to economic activity

AACS emphasized the importance of political will and transparency in implementing these tough reforms, which are not attributes in abundance within the political class. The reforms were not going to be popular or the politically correct thing to do, but it was the right call by leadership interested in the long term stability of a nation on the brinks. The firm also advocated for local government autonomy t.ly/KjI3h, education loans bit.ly/4o0AyZx, state police (bit.ly/4pTgTwj), and a reduction in interest rates to drive growth. Indeed, AACS on 23rd of September 2025 called for a 50 basis point reduction in interest rates once the data showed a disinflation trend (bit.ly/4qcYkUn). These reforms are not ideally rocket science but where the data led. Today, all top analysts can agree with this position especially as the result is now evident.

While Nigeria’s economic stability is a welcome development, challenges persist especially in the hardship and sacrifices of the citizenry, and the leadership must work through them. The government must also improve its optics and more aggressively introduce intervention policies to support the vulnerable. The focus on reforms must remain laser-sharp as Nigeria marches toward its rightful place in the comity of nations. One of the most important attributes of leadership is not to pander to what is politically correct but what will ultimately benefit the people no matter how difficult it may be.

AACS speaks objectively to the data, pushes where it leads and bells the cat . AACS was ahead of the curve, our blueprint on the reforms was right and we believe it would still take the nation and its people to prosperity if we remain resilient.

The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has said it has received a total of 11,101 consumer complaints since its establishment in March 2018, out of which it was able to resolve 10,474 cases, with 437 being presently processed, and 197 referred to relevant agencies.

The General Manager of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, highlighted these achievements at the maiden edition of the Consumer Service Week and Award Ceremony, held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, recently.

Solebo also revealed that the agency, during the period under review, also facilitated recoveries worth N530,266,592.31 and $14,901.80.

He added that the recovered amount was for consumers across various sectors, such as: Electricity, Automobiles, Banking, Healthcare, Telecommunications, Insurance, Logistics, Hospitality, Food and Beverages, Oil and Gas, among others.

Solebo noted that the agency also carried out multiple enforcement operations across supermarkets, open markets, and retail outlets to rid the state of expired and hazardous products, while intensifying consumer education campaigns through partnerships with NYSC, schools, trade associations, market leaders, and community groups, to empower Lagos residents to know and assert their rights.

He explained that the decision to organise Consumer Service Week and Award Day was informed by the need to celebrate excellence, transparency, fairness, and also recognise individuals, government bodies, private sector operators, civil society, the media, and compliant businesses, for their invaluable role in promoting fair trade and consumer rights.

‘Today, we are not only appreciating stakeholders but also reflecting on the remarkable progress we have made together in ensuring that Lagos remains a safe and fair marketplace for all,’ Solebo said.

He reaffirmed LASCOPA’s mission to build a Lagos where consumer rights are respected, businesses thrive on integrity, and residents enjoy the assurance of safety, fairness, and value.

Chairman of the Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Olori (Dr.) Vicky Haastrup, has endorsed ‘Leading in a Storm’, the latest book by former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside.

Olori Haastrup, who is also the Olori of Ijesaland and wife of the Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, His Imperial Majesty Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, described the work as an indispensable guide for leaders navigating crises.

She made the endorsement on Monday, calling the book a ‘potent compass for leadership in times of uncertainty, instability, and disruption.’

‘In times of crisis, we do not need more rhetoric – we need clarity, resilience, humility, and steadiness of mind. ‘Leading in a Storm’ offers those virtues in disciplined form,’ she said.

The book, which examines how leaders can survive and thrive in turbulent conditions, presents interconnected principles, including situational intelligence, calm confidence, sense-making, flexibility, and effective communication.

Drawing on examples from Nigeria and Africa, Peterside highlights the tools required to lead institutions and communities when normal systems are shaken.

Olori Haastrup’s endorsement is seen as particularly significant. As the Chairman of STOAN, she plays a key role in Nigeria’s maritime and port operations, an industry often tested by global shocks and local challenges.

By aligning with the author’s message, she underscored the book’s practical value beyond theory, stressing its importance for both corporate and national leadership.

The public presentation of ‘Leading in a Storm’ will take place in Lagos on Thursday, October 16, 2025. The event will also feature the launch of another book by Peterside, ‘Beneath the Surface’, a collection of essays reflecting on Nigeria’s challenges and opportunities.

The Federal Government has overhauled agricultural education curricula in line with the ongoing transformation in the education sector and efforts of the government to tackle youth unemployment and food security challenges.

Director, Press and Public Relations, Mrs Folasade Boriowo, who made this known in a statement on Monday in Abuja, disclosed that the Federal Ministries of Education and Agriculture and Food Security announced the reforms to modernise agricultural curricula, attract young people, and align training with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda for a technology-driven agricultural sector.

Speaking during the official presentation of the new Agricultural Curriculum Framework in Abuja, the Minister of Education, Dr Olatunji Alausa, described the initiative as a pivotal step in repositioning agriculture as a pillar of national development.

Alausa expressed concern over the persistent decline in enrolment into agricultural degree programmes across tertiary institutions despite the nation’s heavy investment in the sector.

He noted that in the 2024 United Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) statistics on applications and admissions, 47.92 per cent of the allocated admissions were not utilised. While there are thousands of open slots in agricultural courses annually, only a fraction are filled, posing a serious challenge to Nigeria’s long-term food security and economic growth.

‘Agriculture is a major national priority, but enrolment in agriculture in higher institutions is dropping,’ he said.

‘In the last three years, there have been thousands of open slots in agriculture, but only a fraction have been taken. This is a serious gap, especially in an area that should ensure food security for Nigeria and make the country an export hub for agricultural products.’

He contrasted this with the growing enthusiasm for vocational and technical agricultural training. ‘Out of over 900,000 TVET applications received recently, more than 210,000 were for livestock farming alone, while agriculture overall ranked close to garment making, which recorded over 260,000 applicants,’ the Minister noted.

‘This shows that young Nigerians are eager to gain practical agricultural skills, but the outdated tertiary curriculum has not kept pace with modern realities.’

Dr. Alausa reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to modernising agricultural education to meet industry needs and align with emerging opportunities. ‘That’s why the Ministry of Education and state governments have agreed to modernise the curriculum to meet the needs of modern agricultural education,’ he said. ‘Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the government has already begun creating Special Agricultural Processing and Production Zones to add value and create new value chains that will employ hundreds of thousands of Nigerians.’

He cited the Republic of Benin’s cotton processing model bordering Borgu, Niger State, as an example of value addition and youth empowerment. ‘Benin moved from earning $500 million in raw cotton exports to $12 billion in processed cotton products, employing over 25,000 young people. Nigeria will replicate this success through curriculum reform and practical agricultural education that supports our production zones and export diversification goals.’

Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, echoed Dr. Alausa’s position, emphasising that Nigeria’s food sovereignty agenda demands a comprehensive overhaul of agricultural education.

‘As Nigeria seeks to diversify, we need more people engaged in agricultural enterprise,’ Senator Abdullahi said. ‘Food security cannot be achieved without aligning our education and training systems with national priorities. Our curriculum must equip graduates not just with theoretical knowledge but with the practical skills and innovation needed to drive agricultural transformation.’

The newly developed Agricultural Curriculum Framework, jointly prepared by the Federal Ministry of Education and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, provides a roadmap for modernising agricultural education, strengthening technical and vocational training, and aligning Nigeria’s education system with global best practices to support the nation’s food security, youth employment, and economic diversification agenda.

‘The Federal Ministry of Education reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure the revised curriculum delivers modern, inclusive, and industry-relevant agricultural training across all levels of education,’ the statement added.

89 members of the minority caucus in the House of Representatives under the umbrella of Active Minority have thrown their weight behind the embattled minority leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda (PDP, Rivers) warning that they would resist any attempt to remove him.

This is coming on the heels of a meeting of the Minority Caucus slated for Monday evening in Abuja.

Notice for the meeting was jointly signed on Sunday, October 5, by Hon. Agbedi Frederick, leader of PDP Caucus, Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, leader, LP Caucus, Hon. Muktar Umar-Zakar, NNPP Caucus and Hon. Peter Uzokwe, leader, YPP.

It was titled, ‘Notice of emergency meeting of the minority caucus of the House of Representatives’, and addressed to ‘All Minority Members of the House of Representatives’

The notice read, ‘You are hereby invited to an emergency meeting to discuss recent developments in the minority leadership, particularly to review the lawsuit instituted by Minority Leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda, against all members of minority parties in the 10th House of Representatives’.

The meeting is scheduled for The Envoy Hotel in Abuja. But as at last night, the venue of the meeting was said to have been changed to Conference Room 028 in the House of Representatives New Building at 8pm.

Recall that Chinda had last week filed a suit seeking an injunction to prevent the speaker of the House, the clerk and leadership of National Assembly and the minority parties’ caucus from removing him as minority leader.

Some minority lawmakers are planning to replace Hon. Chinda over allegations of not providing leadership and working for the ruling APC, being a close confidant of the FCT minister, Chief Nyesom Wike.

But the Active Minority group, led by a PDP member from one of the Northern states has also been meeting in Abuja ahead of the resumption of plenary on Tuesday, October 7th.

A member of the Active Minority, who is privy to the meetings spoke on condition of anonymity boasting that they are prepared to counter the moves by certain interests in the PDP and the ADC bent on replacing Chinda because of his affiliation to the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike.

According to him, ‘We have stumbled on a plot by certain leaders in the PDP and ADC to replace the minority leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Kingsley Chinda. His only sin is the allegations that he is close to the FCT minister, Chief Wike.

‘But I can assure you, we are ready for those sponsored to come to the floor and execute this insidious plan. Our group, the Active Minority is prepared to resist this because Hon. Chinda has discharged his responsibilities as an opposition leader very well.

‘As I speak with you, the Active Minority has a membership strength of 89 honourable members and more honourable members are identifying with us. Mind you, the entire opposition lawmakers are about 140 and we have an overwhelming majority to counter any undemocratic move’.

When asked about the list of the Active Minority, the lawmaker said; ‘We are keeping our identities under wraps until the House resumes. We don’t want to let the cat out of the bag now. Our strategy is also within us until we meet on the battle field’.

While giving reasons why they are supporting minority leader, the lawmaker said ‘Hon. Chinda’s unwavering commitment to upholding democratic principles and advocating for the rights of the Nigerian people has set him apart as a beacon of hope in times of uncertainty.

‘Chinda has since 2023 vehemently stood against the detection of opposition lawmakers to APC. One of Chinda’s notable contributions lies in his staunch opposition to members of the opposition defecting to the ruling party, citing violations of constitutional provisions and electoral laws.

‘He has always been a strong voice drawing the attention of the leadership to at least obey the law and do what is right’.

According to him, ‘In the face of adversity and resistance, Chinda has stood firm in his convictions, fearlessly challenging the status quo and holding the government accountable for its actions.

‘His vocal stance on critical issues has resonated with many, inspiring a sense of unity and solidarity among those who seek a more just and equitable society.

‘By setting a precedent of integrity and adherence to legal frameworks, he encourages others to follow suit in promoting a fair and transparent governance system. So, why would you suddenly decide to remove such an effective leader from his position because of a flimsy excuse that he’s close to Wike. Why don’t you go and face Wike and leave Chinda alone?

‘Again, Chinda’s relentless pursuit of transparency and accountability underscores the importance of strengthening democratic institutions to foster a resilient system of governance in Nigeria.

‘His dedication to uplifting the voices of the often overlooked in decision-making processes showcases a deep-rooted commitment to inclusivity and representation.

‘Most importantly, Chinda has demonstrated exceptional leadership by spearheading the sponsorship of various bills and motions that address pressing issues facing the nation. So, we cannot allow such an excellent material to be thrown under the bus. All we are saying is Chinda must stay,’ he stated.

Recall that Chinda has named the National Assembly, speaker of the House, clerk of the National Assembly and members of the minority caucus as defendants in the suit challenging moves to remove him as minority leader.

He alleged that the plot to remove him stems from his close association with Nyesom Wike, the FCT minister, who is also the only PDP member in President Tinubu’s APC-led cabinet.

Dangote Refinery has expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his swift intervention in resolving the recent industrial crisis involving the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).

In a statement made available to Tribune Online, the refinery commended the president for his decisive role through his ministers and senior government officials, which led to what it described as ‘the abatement of the disruptive actions of PENGASSAN against the Refinery.’

The statement acknowledged the efforts of Nigeria’s security chiefs, including the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Director General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Adeola Toyin Ajayi; and the Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, Mr. Mohammed Mohammed, for their roles in restoring ‘sanity and order to the energy subsector.’

It also recognised the commitment of the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Mohammed Dingyadi; the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; the Honourable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu; and the Honourable Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, for their ‘patriotism and national service.’

‘To Nigerians of all walks of life, we owe you more than a debt of gratitude. Your support for our righteous cause was both humbling and overwhelming,’ the statement read, adding that the encouragement from the public ‘reinforced our belief in the Nigerian nation and people as the backbone of our enterprise.’

The refinery also extended appreciation to its employees for maintaining uninterrupted operations during the period of tension.

‘You proved your allegiance to our cause these several days even in the face of the provocative and inciting comments of and directives from detractors and naysayers,’ it stated, assuring that loyal workers ‘will continue to be handsomely rewarded and remunerated.’

While highlighting its contribution to national development, the company reaffirmed its status as ‘one of Nigeria’s model employers of labour and the largest private sector employer in the country as well as the largest contributor to Nigeria’s tax revenues.’

It emphasised that its compensation framework is aligned with international standards and designed to ‘reward performance, protect employee welfare, uphold dignity in labour and provide a safe and enabling workplace.’

Dangote Refinery also commended the Nigerian judiciary for what it described as its courageous stance in upholding the rule of law during the crisis.

‘They stood up for the truth and proved themselves as the bastion of hope for all of us,’ it said, condemning what it termed ‘the rascality and lawlessness’ of those who refused to honour court orders.

The refinery reaffirmed its dedication to the country, stating, ‘We would not relent in serving the Nigerian nation faithfully and diligently through the uninterrupted production of our petroleum products. Our commitment to the Nigerian nation and our pact with its people remain undiluted, undiminished and unalterable.’