The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) says that the Federal Government’s intervention in the dispute between the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Dangote Refinery is beginning to produce constructive outcomes.

Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, PETROAN President Billy Gillis-Harry confirmed that progress had been made through government engagements with key stakeholders and regulators in the downstream sector. These consultations are aimed at averting the planned industrial action centred on Dangote’s downstream operations.

Gillis-Harry highlighted concerns that Dangote Refinery’s push into refining, storage, logistics, and retail could marginalise existing players, including independent marketers and depot owners. PETROAN has therefore called for a stakeholder roundtable to define roles and ensure inclusive industry participation.

He emphasized the importance of union representation across all retail outlets to maintain pricing discipline and prevent exploitation. Without such measures, he warned that consumers could face variable pricing, with disparities of up to 150% between outlets.

In response to the ongoing tension, PETROAN announced a potential three-day suspension of fuel lifting and dispensing starting Tuesday, September 9, if no agreement is reached. The measure was intended as leverage to prompt dialogue rather than disrupt supply.

The Association of Resident Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (ARD-FCT) commenced a seven-day warning strike on Monday to demand urgent reforms in the territory’s health sector.

In a communiqué signed by President George Ebong and other executive members, the doctors described the FCT health system as fraught with chronic systemic failures, calling for immediate and comprehensive reform.

Ebong highlighted the dire working conditions: severe manpower shortages, malfunctioning equipment, unpaid allowances, unpaid salaries, and delayed promotions. Many doctors are reportedly overburdened, covering multiple departments simultaneously, a scenario he warned could precipitate a systemic collapse.

The ARD-FCT has issued a one-week ultimatum to the FCT administration to begin implementing meaningful improvements—particularly in staffing and welfare—or face escalation to an indefinite strike.

Responding on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Minister of State for Health Isaq Salako expressed optimism that ongoing government dialogue with the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) could avert further disruption. He acknowledged that about 40% of the 2025 residency allowances remain unpaid, and assured that discussions are underway to resolve these outstanding issues.

The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, has signalled that lending rates could decrease in the coming months, as headline inflation shows signs of slowing.

Speaking during a fireside chat at the European Business Chamber (Eurocham Nigeria) C-Level Forum, Cardoso said that while inflation remains elevated, its gradual decline opens the door for lower interest rates.

He emphasised that an environment of easing inflation and improved market efficiency would naturally support stronger corporate lending and increased investment.

Cardoso underscored the CBN’s top priority: maintaining financial system stability while addressing inflation pressures. He reiterated that the ongoing recapitalisation of banks is critical in strengthening institutions to withstand economic shocks and support growth.

He also highlighted the importance of deepening financial inclusion through technology-driven solutions and fintech, as part of broader efforts to promote equitable access to credit and tackle poverty.

In addition, he praised enhanced coordination between the central bank and fiscal authorities—including the Ministries of Finance, Trade and Industry, and the Budget Office—as key for sustaining economic reforms and long-term stability.