The nation’s apex maritime regulatory agency, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has launched a Reviewed Minimum Standards document for dockworkers in the country.
NIMASA Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola launched this document in Lagos on Wednesday in commemorating the international day for celebration of dockworkers.
The NIMASA boss, who was represented by the Agency’s Executive Director of Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, Mr. Jibril Abba, assured stakeholders that under his leadership, there will be an enabling environment for maritime labour to function in line with global best practices.
He also encouraged employers of labour to renew their commitment to improved workplace safety for the Nigerian dockworker, stating that efficiency in the workplace can only be guaranteed when the safety of dockworkers is assured.
His words: “NIMASA is committed to supporting you with the tools, resources, and training necessary to enhance efficiency. By working smarter, we not only boost our productivity but also ensure the sustainability and competitiveness of our maritime industry on the global stage.
“It is very instructive that we have concluded, as part of the activities of this great day, to launch a document that encapsulates our commitment as an Agency to ensuring that Nigerian dockworkers are treated fairly by the terminal operators and stevedoring companies.”
He added that the document codifies the implementation of approved conditions of service and collective bargaining agreements on minimum standards.”
The President General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, used the occasion to advocate for employers at the port terminals to provide insurance policies for dockworkers and their families.
MWUN helmsman also called on NIMASA to focus on regulating and compelling terminal operators to ensure that the health and welfare of dockworkers are prioritized, noting that the inherent risks associated with cargo handling and their unique operations must be considered in line with their well-being.
“As a union we strongly urge the terminal operators to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of dockworkers by providing adequate Personal Protective Equipment. We further advocate for employers to provide group life insurance coverage to all dockworkers, recognizing the inherent risks associated with cargo handling and their unique operations,” Adeyanju said.
On his part, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, noted that the dock labour industry is a force to be reckoned with.
In his paper presentation, delivered by the General Manager of Marine and Operations, NPA, Dr. Charles Okaga, Dantsoho called on other government agencies to support dockworkers in capacity building for effective port terminal operations.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Seaports Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Princess Vicky Haastrup, described dockworkers as unsung heroes but commended NIMASA for recognizing their contributions.
The event was graced by several maritime bigwigs including; the Chairman of Nigerian Ports Consultative Council (NPCC), Mr. Bolaji Sunmola; Executive Director Operations, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Engr. Fatai Taiye Adeyemi; President, Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA), Dr. (Mrs.) Odunayo Ani; Pioneer President, Dockworkers Union, Comrade Joshua Ogunleye; among others.
