The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has called for any amendments under Executive Order 9 to undergo full legislative scrutiny to safeguard stability in the oil and gas sector.
PENGASSAN President, Mr. Festus Osifo, made the call in Abuja during the association’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting. He expressed concerns that the order, issued by President Bola Tinubu on Feb. 13, could undermine existing laws, particularly the Petroleum Industry Act.
Executive Order 9 directs that all petroleum revenues—including royalties, taxes, and profit oil—be paid directly into the Federation Account to enhance transparency and curb leakages.
Osifo warned that altering critical industry laws through executive orders rather than the National Assembly could weaken investor confidence, disrupt operations, and threaten workers’ welfare. He noted possible implications for salary payments and funding structures tied to joint venture operations.
He urged the Federal Government to channel proposed amendments through proper legislative processes to ensure transparency and stakeholder engagement. While acknowledging ongoing discussions with government officials, Osifo expressed optimism that dialogue would help resolve concerns.
