President Tinubu Assures Labour Unions of Refinery Rebirth, Suspends Protests for Constructive Engagements

Port Harcourt Refinery’s Promised Rejuvenation

Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, offered reassurances to the country’s labor unions that the Port Harcourt refinery will be operational by December 2023. The President conveyed his commitment during a meeting with the leadership of the organized labor center in Abuja. He cited the ongoing rehabilitation contract between the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and Italian firm, Maire Tecnimont SpA, as the path to restoring the refinery’s functionality.

Working Towards Nigeria’s Best Interest

President Tinubu emphasized his dedication to working for the best interest of Nigeria. He earnestly appealed to the labor leaders to join hands with him in the collective effort to create a better and economically thriving country. The President’s call for collaboration reflects his belief in the importance of collective efforts to address the nation’s challenges.

Suspension of Protests for Constructive Engagements

Following a fruitful and frank discussion with President Tinubu, the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, led by Comrades Joe Ajaero and Festus Usifo, respectively, resolved to suspend further protests. They expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s ability to encourage open and honest consideration of the issues presented by the labor movement. Instead, they opted for further constructive engagement with the government to address outstanding concerns affecting the welfare of working people and all Nigerians. This decision highlights a shift towards dialogue and collaboration in seeking solutions to labor-related issues.