Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria Celebrates Dockworkers Day 2024

Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria Celebrates Dockworkers Day 2024
….calls on Terminal Operators
to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of dockworkers
…… implores Government to
resuscitate Tally Clerks and onboard Gangway Security

Dr.Adewale Adeyanju, President General,MWUN, delivery his address ,at the event on Wednesday,in Lagos,flaked by his left the deputy president,MWUN,comrade Toney Harry 

By Frank Odinukaeze

The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) celebrated Dockworkers Day 2024 with a grand event that highlighted the crucial contributions of dockworkers to the maritime industry. The President General of MWUN, Comrade (Prince) Dr. Adewale Adeyanju, delivered a powerful address emphasizing the dedication and sacrifices of dockworkers who ensure the smooth and efficient operations of Nigeria’s ports.

In his speech, Dr. Adeyanju expressed deep gratitude to key stakeholders, including the Honorable Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, for his unprecedented support and engagement. He also acknowledged the efforts of Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General of NIMASA, and his team for their continuous support of dockworkers.

Dr. Adeyanju extended his appreciation to Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Barr. Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Shippers Council, and Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, for their transformative engagement with stakeholders in the maritime industry.

The President General also recognized the contributions of the Seaports Terminals Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN) and the National Association of Stevedoring Operators (NASO) for providing a conducive working environment for dockworkers.

This year’s theme, “Safety First, Efficiency Always,” served as a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize safety and efficiency in port operations. Dr. Adeyanju highlighted the risks and hazards faced by dockworkers daily, from heavy machinery to harsh weather conditions and hazardous cargo. He stressed the importance of providing necessary training, equipment, and support to ensure the safety and efficiency of dockworkers.

Dr. Adeyanju called on terminal operators to prioritize the safety and well-being of dockworkers by providing adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and group life insurance coverage. He also advocated for health insurance coverage for all dockworkers and their immediate families, emphasizing that “health is wealth.”
The MWUN boss said,”It is on this premise that we advocate the need for HMO for ALL Dockworkers in their places of work that will provide health insurance coverage for them and their immediate family”
He affirmed that Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) will continue to advocate for better working conditions, improved safety standards, and fair compensation for all dockworkers and other categories of their members.

R- L president of National Association of Stevedores Operation NASO,Comrade BOLAJI SUNMOLA,an official of NASO and Barrister Ephraim Effiota,former port Manager, Nigerian Ports Authority,Tin Can port,at the dockworkers day celebration in Lagos on Wednesday 
“We will also work closely with other stakeholders, including Terminal Operators, Shipping companies and Government Agencies, to ensure that our ports are safe, efficient, and productive” Adeyanju assured.
He added,” It is important to equally draw the attention of Government to resuscitation of Tally Clerks and onboard Gangway Security Men which forms an integral part of Dockworkers in accordance with section 27 of NIMASA Act 2007. Meanwhile, we urge the Nigeria Customs Service to extend a hand a fellowship, collaborate and synergize with Dockworkers and the Union in the area of customs examination to forestall the importation of hard drugs.

“However, despite the shortcomings of port concession, it has brought in improved security, lighting of the terminals, the ports are now better secured for cargo and safe for port workers. It has also led to better welfare and remuneration of Dockworkers”.
Adeyanju expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Ports Authority particularly the leadership of Chief Adebayo Sarunmi who,he noted, was “instrumental” to initiating the Condition of Service for Dockworkers.
“Finally, as we celebrate Dockworkers’ Day today let us remember the importance of safety and efficiency in all our operations. Let us renew our commitment to prioritizing the safety and well being of all dockworkers. And let us work together to build a maritime industry that is safe, efficient and prosperous for all”Dr Adeyanju admonished.

There were match parades by all the arms of the dockworkers,and other side attractions to spice up the day.

The event underscored the vital role of dockworkers in the maritime industry and the need for continued efforts to improve their working conditions and safety standards.