The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Dr. Ibe Kachikwu has commended the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) for their contribution on the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

Kachikwu gave the commendation while speaking at the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) PENGASSAN chapter 5th Triennial delegate Conference in Abuja on Tuesday.

Kachikwu was represented at the event by the Director, Human Resources, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Ibrahim Mariga.

"I am happy with the relationship the union have with the ministry, DPR management and the role it has played in the oil and gas sector in general.

"The ministry is also pleased with your contribution in the PIB, it was helpful for the National Assembly in carrying out their duty especially on ensuring that independent regulator emerges," he said.

He challenged the new executives that would be elected after the conference to continue the good work for the growth of the sector as well as the country.

Similarly, the Executive Director of DPR, Dr. Mordecai Ladan also commended the union members for their contribution in ensuring global best practices in the department.

"Your contributions have helped to achieve so much as a regulator and I want you to keep it up.

He urged the incoming executives to take a leaf from the outgoing members to ensure continuity in the system.

In his welcome address, DPR branch Chairman, Bello Garba said the union had worked in together with the management in moving DPR forward. He noted that the union had continued to play very constructive role in protecting and strengthening the workforce which had contributed to positive results.

"Overtime, unionism has changed remarkably in response to the major challenges and needs of members, particularly in the area of welfare and nation building.

"I wish to point out that the union must be alive in proffering and supporting moves to better the situation in our nation, while maintaining its relevance as a pressure group.

"Therefore it will be pleasing if we are able to achieve consensus on having well equipped and empowered independent regulator," he stated.