The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) has called on the Federal Government to establish a clear policy framework that prevents the unlawful shutdown of businesses in Nigeria.
Chief Executive Officer of CPPE, Dr. Muda Yusuf, made the appeal in a statement on Sunday, stressing that protecting investors and employers should be regarded as a national economic priority rather than a privilege.
Yusuf argued that a stable and secure investment environment is critical to economic growth, job creation, and social stability. According to him, “Investors mobilise capital, create jobs, and generate the tax revenues that sustain government and society. Without them, there can be no sustained growth, no employment, and no national prosperity.”
He emphasized that Nigeria must urgently institutionalize a fair, secure, and predictable business environment that guarantees the safety of enterprises and discourages arbitrary disruptions. The statement clarified that the call was not aimed at weakening labour unions but rather at balancing rights and responsibilities among all stakeholders to ensure sustainable development.
The CPPE noted that repeated disruptions to business operations—particularly those arising from industrial disputes—undermine investor confidence and damage the country’s economic reputation.
This call came shortly after the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) embarked on a two-day strike against the Dangote Refinery, protesting the alleged mass dismissal of workers. The industrial action, however, was suspended after the Federal Government intervened and both parties reached an amicable settlement.
Dr. Yusuf said incidents like the refinery dispute highlight the urgent need for policies that safeguard private investments while ensuring that workers’ rights are respected within lawful limits.
He reiterated that a stable private sector remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, urging policymakers to take proactive steps to prevent disruptions that could stall economic recovery, deter investors, and threaten national prosperity.
