Penguins survive on iceberg and if the iceberg is melting, then there is a serious danger to their survival . Today our association faces similar dangers. The iceberg of PENGASSAN is melting and melting very fast. Today our industry is facing severe challenges such as unprecedented levels of oil theft and insecurity; divestment on industry scale; underfunding of programme budgets; unending reforms in the petroleum industry and fears around the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB); discussions on the right model for the refineries; insecurity of lives and property; suspension of new investments due to delayed passage of the PIB; unfair and outdated labour laws; expansion of free trade zones etc. As if these are not enough, our Union is also facing great internal challenges and complexities. These challenges have dire implications for PENGASSAN as an effective Union and an influential social partner. They are also great dangers to our us, our families, our industry and our nation.
Chika Onuegbu