The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has paid glowing tributes to the late Comrade Uche Marcus Okoro, the former President of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), marking the 20th anniversary of his tragic passing.
In a statement signed by the Head of Media and Strategic Communication, Eniola Akinkuotu, the Commission expressed solidarity with PENGASSAN as it commemorates the two-decade milestone since the loss of its leader.
Comrade Okoro was among the victims of the devastating Sosoliso Airlines plane crash that occurred on December 10, 2005.
The NUPRC extolled the late unionist’s unique legacy, noting that he holds the singular distinction of having served as President of both the major unions in the sector, PENGASSAN and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).
The Commission described this feat as a testament to his sterling leadership qualities and widespread acceptance among oil workers.
According to the statement, the Commission praised Okoro’s doggedness and dedication to the plight of Nigerian oil workers, virtues that led PENGASSAN to immortalize him by christening its national headquarters U.M. Okoro House.
Seizing the opportunity to reflect on the values championed by the late leader, the NUPRC restated its own commitment to the welfare and development of its staff.
The Commission further extended its condolences to the family of the deceased, praying for continued strength for the wife and children he left behind.