The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has stated that overcoming national insecurity is impossible without immediate efforts to alleviate extreme poverty. The union emphasized that living standards across the country must be elevated to address the root causes of instability.
During a gathering held to celebrate the legacy of past union leaders, PENGASSAN President Festus Osifo highlighted that economic distress extends far beyond the workforce. He noted that even employees with stable incomes are often overwhelmed by the financial demands of supporting unemployed family members and neighbors. While the association remains committed to defending its members’ welfare, Osifo insisted that the broader economic crisis cannot be overlooked.
A major focus of his address was the failure of local government administration. As the tier of government nearest to the average citizen, it should serve as a primary vehicle for accountability and community development. Instead, Osifo argued that most local councils remain ineffective, failing to address the essential needs of the people. This governance gap exacerbates poverty levels and hinders efforts to curb violence and crime.
To combat these issues, the union leader called for a collaborative approach involving federal, state, and local authorities. He urged government officials to display genuine political resolve by implementing policies that tangibly improve the quality of life for all Nigerians. The event also served as a tribute to former union officials whose past leadership established the foundation for the current organization.
