After over two decades of struggle and failed negotiations, the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) and shipping companies under the Shipping, Shipping Agencies, Clearing and Forwarding Employers Association (SACFEA) have finally reached a historic agreement on minimum standards for the conditions of service for workers in the shipping industry.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The landmark agreement, facilitated by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, marks a significant milestone for maritime workers across the country.
The agreement was signed in Lagos on Friday, with the ceremony attended by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and CEOs of major shipping companies in Nigeria.
During the event, Oyetola praised the agreement as a major achievement and a testament to the government’s dedication to safeguarding the rights and welfare of workers in the maritime sector.
“The agreement is a reflection of the trajectory of this administration and a testament to our collective commitment to uphold the rights and welfare of workers in the industry,” Oyetola stated.
“Through this agreement, we commit to prioritizing safety and health standards, ensuring that workers are provided with necessary training and resources to operate in secure environments. A uniform standard will guarantee a level playing field among employers in the maritime sector, thereby discouraging exploitation and promoting ethical practices.”
He emphasized the importance of treating the maritime workforce with dignity and providing the necessary conditions for them to thrive, given the sector’s significant role in job creation and its contribution to the nation’s GDP.
Oyetola urged all parties involved to honor the agreement and work towards creating a positive work environment.
He also encouraged labor unions to remain vigilant in advocating for workers’ rights and ensuring compliance with the new standards, while the government would continue to provide oversight and support for ongoing improvements.
Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, President General of MWUN, hailed the agreement as a “significant milestone” in the union’s long-standing efforts to eliminate unfair labor practices and enhance working conditions within the shipping subsector.
“It’s been an exhausting journey, spanning several years and countless engaging meetings and travels, surmounting many hiccups to finally arrive at this glorious moment,” Adeyanju said.
“This signing will pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for both employees and employers.”
Adeyanju highlighted that the new minimum wage of N200,000 would be reviewed every two years to ensure that it remains fair and reflective of economic realities.
He praised the shift towards dialogue and negotiation over strikes, noting that MWUN now prioritizes constructive engagement with stakeholders.
He also thanked the Minister for his support and commended SACFEA members for their willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue.
“This agreement is a testament to the power of collaboration and the unwavering dedication of our members, CEOs, and Human Resource Officials of the numerous shipping companies who took out time to sit at the negotiating table with us. We applaud you,” Adeyanju added.
He stressed that the union’s work is far from finished and that they would continue to advocate for the rights and interests of maritime workers, ensuring peaceful industrial relations.
Boma Alabi, Chairman of SACFEA, described the agreed minimum standard as “the highest in any industry in Nigeria.” She expressed her gratitude to the Minister for his directive and support, which she said were instrumental in finalizing the agreement.
Alabi also acknowledged the Nigerian Shippers’ Council for providing a neutral platform for negotiations and emphasized the mutual dependence of employers and workers in achieving progress.
“This is a social partnership for progress. We cannot do without our employers. The most valuable asset we have is our human assets, our workers. We cannot operate without our workers and without the employers. So we are partners in progress and we are glad that we have set a minimum standard that every player in the industry must adhere to,” Alabi stated.
“We have set a standard and we will continue to cooperate and work with all stakeholders in the industry for harmony and progress and ultimately for the benefit of our country.”
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Barr. Pius Akutah, commended both MWUN and SACFEA for their commitment to dialogue and collaboration.
He described Adeyanju as a “refined labor leader” whose leadership style significantly contributed to the successful negotiations.
Akutah also praised SACFEA’s leadership, particularly Alabi, for fostering a spirit of cooperation between workers and employers, which he emphasized is crucial for the maritime sector’s growth and stability.
Representatives from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) also commended the Nigerian Shippers’ Council for its role in facilitating the negotiations and reiterated their commitment to advocating for the rights and interests of both maritime workers and employers.
The signing of this agreement marks a turning point in the maritime industry, setting a precedent for fair labor practices and improved working conditions, while fostering a more collaborative and harmonious working environment in Nigeria’s shipping sector.
