By Muhammad Mamman
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its full support for the $20 billion Dangote Refinery, describing it as a national asset vital to Nigeria’s economic future.
Speaking at the opening of the 2025 Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja, Vice President Kashim Shettima stressed that the 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery must be protected and allowed to thrive. His remarks were echoed by the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu.
Reacting to last week’s industrial action by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Shettima urged restraint and national unity, declaring that “Nigeria is greater than PENGASSAN.”
He praised Aliko Dangote for choosing to invest massively in Nigeria rather than abroad.
“Dangote is not just an individual but an institution — a leading light in our economic landscape. If he had invested $10 billion in companies like Microsoft or Amazon, he might now be worth over $70 billion. Yet, he chose to invest at home, and we must protect and promote that spirit of patriotism,” the Vice President said.
Shettima appealed to both labour and the private sector to prioritise national interest in resolving disputes.
“It’s not about holding the nation to ransom over a minor labour issue. Nigeria is greater than any group or individual,” he stated.
