The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) has called on the Federal Government to develop a clear policy framework that will safeguard investors and prevent unlawful business shutdowns across Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Muda Yusuf, Chief Executive Officer of CPPE, stressed that protecting investors is not a privilege but a national economic necessity.

Yusuf explained that a secure and predictable business environment is crucial to boost investor confidence, attract capital, and sustain economic growth. He also emphasized the need to balance the rights of labour unions and employers to avoid disruptions that could threaten major investments such as the Dangote Refinery.

“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,” the statement read.

CPPE urged the government to institutionalise policies that protect businesses from avoidable industrial conflicts, ensuring fairness and accountability on all sides.

The call came shortly after the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) embarked on a two-day strike at the Dangote Refinery over the mass sacking of workers. The strike was, however, suspended following the Federal Government’s intervention, which led to an amicable resolution between the union and refinery management.

Yusuf concluded that protecting private investment is key to sustaining Nigeria’s industrial base, promoting job creation, and ensuring long-term national prosperity.