The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has expressed frustration over the ongoing delays in renewing the port concession licenses for terminal operators at the nation’s seaports. MWUN President Adewale Adeyanju voiced these concerns during the 2024 Dockworkers Day event in Lagos, organized by the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) in partnership with the union.
Adeyanju emphasized that the renewal of these licenses is long overdue, stressing that the delay is affecting operations at the ports. He urged the Federal Government to expedite the signing of the agreements to prevent further uncertainty and potential disruption to the jobs of maritime workers.
“We are calling for the immediate renewal of terminal operators’ licenses. The delays are creating anxiety among workers who are concerned about the stability of their employment. The situation must be resolved promptly to avoid any negative impact on port operations,” Adeyanju stated.
He also called on terminal operators to continue investing in the training of maritime workers and to ensure that qualified personnel are involved in their programs.
The event’s keynote address was delivered by the Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, who highlighted the critical role dockworkers play in Nigeria’s maritime industry. Oyetola emphasized that the maritime sector is vital for the country’s socio-economic development and that the government is committed to maximizing the potential of the marine and blue economy sectors to create jobs, boost revenue, and drive sustainable development.
“The maritime sector is pivotal to Nigeria’s economic growth. This administration is dedicated to advancing the marine and blue economy sectors to enhance productivity and create more job opportunities. We will continue to work closely with the private sector to address infrastructural gaps and improve service delivery in the maritime industry,” Oyetola said.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Barr. Pius Akutah, also addressed the event, urging terminal operators to prioritize the welfare of dockworkers. He noted that dockworkers are essential to the smooth operation of ports and the success of national trade, which significantly contributes to Nigeria’s GDP and attracts foreign investment.
Chairman of the Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Princess Vicky Haastrup, praised dockworkers for their expertise and dedication. She acknowledged the positive impact of Nigeria’s port concession program, which she described as transformative, enhancing working conditions, safety standards, and job security for dockworkers.
The event underscored the importance of resolving the license renewal issue to maintain stability and progress in the maritime sector.
