MWUN Seeks NIMASA’s Support On Biometric ID Cards For Dockworkers, Seafarers

MWUN Seeks NIMASA’s Support On Biometric ID Cards For Dockworkers, Seafarers

MWUN president General,Comrade Francis Bunu Abi (L) Director General NIMASA,Dr.Dayo Mobereola (R), during the former’s courtesy visit to NIMASA,on Thursday,in Lagos.

By Frank Odinukaeze

The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has urged the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to support the implementation of biometric identification cards for its dockworkers and seafarers.

Head of Media of MWUN Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna,stated in a press statement,that the appeal was made on Thursday when the President-General of MWUN, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, led the union’s national executives on a courtesy visit to NIMASA’s headquarters in Lagos.

Bunu explained that the biometric project would help distinguish genuine dockworkers and seafarers from illegal operators who parade themselves as union members, thereby safeguarding the image of the union and ensuring greater orderliness in the nation’s seaports.

“The biometric registration of bonafide members employed in the maritime industry will separate the legitimately employed dockworkers and seafarers from the quacks. This will enhance safety in the ports, reduce pilfering and theft of consignments, and ultimately promote a more business-friendly environment,” he stated.

The MWUN leader, who hails from Delta State, also emphasized the importance of welfare facilities for maritime workers. He reminded NIMASA’s Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, of the union’s collaboration with the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) on plans to establish a Seafarers’ Recreation Centre in Apapa. According to him, the project would provide quality recreational facilities for sailors returning from sea while also serving the general public and generating revenue for the union.

In his response, Dr. Mobereola reaffirmed NIMASA’s commitment to the initiative, assuring that the agency would honor its earlier agreement on the recreation centre. He also commended the union for its proactive stance and congratulated Comrade Bunu on his recent election victory, pledging continued collaboration between NIMASA and MWUN.