MWUN Declares State Of Emergency Over Safety Neglect In Nigerian Ports

MWUN Declares State Of Emergency Over Safety Neglect In Nigerian Ports

By Frank Odinukaeze

The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has issued a stern warning regarding the alarming neglect of safety standards and protocols by Stevedoring Contractors, Terminal Operators, and other port users across Nigeria’s seaports, terminals, jetties, and oil platforms. This neglect has led to a disturbing increase in avoidable deaths and permanent injuries among maritime workers.

In a recent tragic incident on December 25, 2024, at berth 9, Tincan Island Port, Comrade Kazeem Adeshina lost his life due to employer negligence. This incident highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures in port operations.

Despite repeated calls for action, many operators have failed to provide essential safety infrastructure, including personal protective equipment (PPE), communication gadgets, first aid kits, ambulances, and trained safety officers. This lack of compliance with basic safety protocols not only endangers workers’ lives but also threatens the efficiency and sustainability of the maritime industry.

MWUN has condemned this disregard for human life and safety, which has caused unnecessary loss and grief for workers’ families. The union has declared a state of emergency on the non-provision of safety materials and personnel, and the lack of compliance with safety standards by stevedores engaged by terminal operators.

MWUN calls on all relevant government agencies to take immediate action. Failure to enforce safety standards, leading to avoidable accidents, will result in the withdrawal of MWUN members’ services from all port activities nationwide.

Comrade Oniha Erazua, Deputy Secretary General of MWUN,who signed the release on Saturday,emphasized the union’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its members and the broader maritime community.