The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has issued a stern warning, threatening to close the nation’s seaports from next Tuesday. The union cites the alleged persistent refusal of International Oil Companies (IOCs) and stevedoring contractors to comply with existing laws as the reason behind the planned action.
In a statement by MWUN’s Head of Media, John Ikemefuna, quoting the President-General, Prince Adewale Adeyanju, it was revealed that the shutdown would extend to all jetties and oil and gas platforms. Adeyanju emphasized the union’s frustration with the unresponsiveness of IOCs and stevedoring contractors to various forms of communication and warnings.
The union claims to have taken multiple steps to address the issue, including letters, press releases, ultimatums, marine notices to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and ministerial orders. However, all these efforts seem to have been ignored by the management of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
Adeyanju referenced a letter dated June 13, 2023, demanding total compliance of IOCs with stevedoring regulations in line with communiqués signed by relevant stakeholders in the sector. The NPA, as a master stevedore and industry regulator, is responsible for granting operational licenses to stevedoring companies. It must ensure that IOCs adhere to regulations and oversee the dealings of IOCs using the services of stevedoring companies, as well as the welfare of MWUN members employed by IOCs.
Expressing disappointment with the NPA’s alleged neglect of its responsibilities, the union emphasized its commitment to operating within existing regulations. The MWUN accused the NPA of allowing IOCs to run amok without control in the sector.
Citing the refusal of IOCs to comply with stevedoring regulations and the violation of union cheque-off dues remittance, the MWUN declared its intent to shut down seaports nationwide on Tuesday, January 9, 2024. This action follows the expiration of the three workdays given to the NPA, starting from January 4, 2024.
