Uche Usim, Abuja
Natural Oil & Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (NOGASA) on Monday said it has commenced full operations at various depots across the country, even as it vowed to tackle products adulteration, diversion and other sharp practices in the industry.
The President of NOGASA, Mr Benneth Korie, gave the assurance at a press briefing in Abuja.
He said the association’s take off follows the successful inauguration of its executive offices nationwide, adding that the body, having weathered several years of storm was set to take the industry to the next level.
He warned those patronising illegal loading points across the country to immediately desist from doing so, as it remained commercially harmful continuing on such.
“It is also harmful for the reputation of the business. Remember, we are employers of labour, we don’t want anything to jeopardise the jobs of our workers. Besides, the frequent damages caused by adulterated products are costly to end-users.
“We will reinforce standards in the country and end sharp practices, especially as regards adulteration.
We want to see our business grow and employ more Nigerians.
“After years of challenges, NOGASA is now set to provide for real suppliers the representative platform of their dream.
“NOGASA which was registered and inaugurated in 2008 as Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (OGASON) is now being re-launched as NOGASA and as a body platform that will give oil and gas suppliers nationwide a true sense of belonging.
“I and other national officers of the association shall steer the association in respective capacities and functions for the next five-year term of office.
“The strategic position of our industry as suppliers of natural oil and gas, in the overall development of the Nigerian economy and society is immense and cannot be overstated at any given time.
“Our work is clear cut; to assist in creating an enabling environment for our members to operate around Nigeria. For my part, I will do my best to ensure that our members have a smooth interface between the marketers and the end-users. I will work hard at all times to assist in smoothening the relationship between our member suppliers and end-users of our products,” Korie assured