By Onyebuchi Onwuchekwa – Owerri
The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Port Harcourt Zone, has elected a new executive council, with Comrade Bestman Friday emerging as the Zonal Chairman to steer the affairs of the union for the next four years.
The Port Harcourt Zonal Delegates Conference, held in Owerri on Thursday, March 26, 2026, attracted members of the national leadership, veterans, and delegates from the ten states that make up the zone, who gathered for the council election.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the exercise, the newly elected chairman, Comrade Bestman Friday, expressed appreciation for the peaceful and successful conduct of the election. He pledged to uphold the mandate given to him and prioritize the protection of workers’ rights, privileges, and welfare.
According to him, safeguarding workers and ensuring job security remain the core objectives of unionism, particularly in the face of prevailing economic challenges.
He also commended the national leadership for ensuring a hitch-free conference and appreciated the delegates for their participation and confidence in the new executive, assuring them that their trust would not be misplaced.
“Workers’ unity is key to achieving success. Unionism is about bringing people together and organizing workers to pursue a common cause — protecting their rights and ensuring job security in this challenging economy,” he said.
He further emphasized his leadership style, stating that he would operate an open-door policy.
“I am not a manifesto chairman; I am here to serve. My doors are open — in fact, I don’t have a door. Anyone can walk in anytime, and I am ready to render service,” he added.
Also speaking, the CEO of Okwysco Global Limited, Ozo Odeagu Okwy, expressed confidence in the newly elected executive, noting that they possess the capacity to deliver effectively.
He urged the leadership to engage stakeholders in the oil and gas sector and initiate dialogue with the Federal Government to address challenges affecting the industry and ensure sustainable solutions.
In his remarks, the immediate past Port Harcourt Zonal Chairman, Comrade Kingsley Ezenwa, congratulated the newly elected chairman and his team, describing Bestman Friday as a dedicated unionist who worked closely with him during his tenure and possesses the experience to move the zone forward.
Similarly, the Abia State NLC Women Leader and Treasurer of NUPENG Port Harcourt Zone, Comrade Agwuncha Nkechi, appreciated the national leadership for ensuring a successful conference.
She also commended the returning officers for their efforts and prayed for wisdom and strength for the newly elected leaders as they assume office.