Olu Samuel
Senator Steve Karimi, Representing Kogi West Senatorial District, has called on NUPENG and Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association to reach a Negotiated deal with Dangote Refinery that would be beneficial to their interest and operations, pointing out that the need to sustain the gains made in the nation’s economy should not be compromised.
Senator Karimi made the disclosure following the restraining Court order barring NUPENG, truck drivers from blocking roads, disrupting Dangote Refinery operations.
Recalled that the court also restrained NUPENG and others from frustrating or shutting down the operations of Dangote Refinery, MRS Oil Nigeria Limited, and MRS Oil and Gas Company Limited, urge NUPENG and others to seek other options for bargain or arrangement that would be mutually advantageous rather than protest and disruption.
The Senator in a statement on Thursday in Lokoja opined that the operation of the Dangote refinery is a blessing to Nigeria’s economy, insisting that it will amount to dragging back the gains made in effort to reposition the economy under the present administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu.
“The subsidy removal by the Federal Government is now yielding positive economic impacts partly by the coming on board of Dangote refinery. We need to join hands together to encourage the smooth operation of the refinery.
“It is note worthy that despite the heavy investment of previous government in rehabilitation of all our refineries the funds failed to yield returns on investment”, lamenting that the refineries are still not in operation.
“But because of Dangote refinery we are now less dependent on importation of fuel products and our local currency is getting stronger by the day”.
“Commendation must also go to President Tinubu for creating enabling environment for the smooth operation of the refinery by ensuring sales of crude to them at a negotiated agreement that is beneficial to both parties”
This efforts must be sustained, urge NUPENG and the Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association to negotiate a deal with Dangote rather than embarking on any industrial action, compelling other truck drivers to join.