MWUN, Melsmore Marine Embrace Unionization in Renewed Partnership

MWUN, Melsmore Marine Embrace Unionization in Renewed Partnership
……seafarers to benefit from NJIC welfare package as Union vows to enforce maritime labour standards

Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, president General,MWUN

By Frank Odinukaeze

In a move signaling a fresh start in labour relations, the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has commenced the unionization of seafarers employed by Melsmore Marine Nigeria Limited following a facility tour and engagement held at the company’s Ibeju Lekki base on Sunday.

Led by the President-General of the Seafarers Branch, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, and accompanied by top national executives, the MWUN delegation met with workers and company representatives as part of efforts to ensure compliance with maritime labour regulations and promote better welfare for maritime workers.

In a press statement by Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna,Media Head of the Union, this development marks a turning point in the once strained relationship between the union and Melsmore Marine. Earlier this year, the union had clashed with the company over its refusal to provide a current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and pension remittance records for its staff. However, a reconciliation meeting between both parties led to an agreement that all seafarers under Melsmore’s employment would be unionized in line with national and international maritime labour standards.

Speaking during the visit, Comrade Bunu decried the widespread neglect and exploitation of seafarers across Nigeria, highlighting poor remuneration, unsafe working conditions, and lack of adequate health and safety facilities on vessels. “Many seafarers are forced to work in hazardous environments, exposing them to life-threatening diseases, with some losing their lives at sea. This must stop,” Bunu stated firmly.

He warned that going forward, the union will not tolerate any form of negligence or breach of maritime labour laws by employers. “This is a new order in the Nigerian maritime industry. Employers must comply with global best practices, especially regarding workers’ safety and welfare,” the labour leader emphasized.

Addressing the workers, Comrade Bunu assured them of a smooth unionization process, pledging that no employee would be subjected to intimidation or victimization. He also disclosed that a comprehensive Work Guidelines and Welfare Package—under the National Joint Industrial Council (NJIC)—will be introduced to protect the rights of workers and ensure seamless operations across all branches of the union.

The tour by the MWUN marks a renewed era of cooperation between labour and industry players, with the union reaffirming its commitment to improving the lives of maritime workers nationwide.