The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has issued a statement declaring its intention to shut down port operations across the country on June 5, 2021, if the Federal Government fails to address some of the union’s demands. The union’s demands include the payment of outstanding wages to dockworkers, provision of better working conditions, and the dredging of Nigerian seaports to accommodate larger vessels.
In a press conference held in Lagos, the President-General of MWUN, Adewale Adeyanju, expressed the union’s dissatisfaction with the lack of action taken by the Federal Government to address their demands. Adeyanju lamented the poor working conditions faced by maritime workers, including dilapidated equipment and inadequate safety measures. He cited an example of a recent incident where a crane fell on a dockworker at the Lagos Port, resulting in his death.
MWUN is seeking the intervention of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the National Assembly in pressuring the Federal Government to meet their demands. The union’s president-general warned that if their demands were not met, they would have no choice but to embark on a nationwide strike on June 5.
The potential shutdown of port operations would have a major impact on the Nigerian economy, as the country relies heavily on seaborne trade. The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has already urged the Federal Government to address the concerns raised by MWUN to prevent disruptions to port operations.
In light of Facebook policies on suicide and self-harm, it is important to note that the MWUN’s strike action is not related to those issues. The shutdown of port operations, if it occurs, will be a result of the union’s demands for better working conditions and payment of outstanding salaries to dockworkers.
In conclusion, it is crucial for the Nigerian Government to address the concerns raised by MWUN to prevent disruptions to port operations that could have a ripple effect on the country’s economy. Proper attention to the union’s demands would ensure the safety and well-being of maritime workers and enhance the efficiency of seaborne trade in Nigeria.
