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The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has commended the critical contributions of Nigerian dockworkers to the nation’s maritime and blue economy, describing them as the backbone of port operations and a vital link in global trade facilitation.
Oyetola gave the commendation at the 2025 Day of the Dockworker, jointly organised by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) in Lagos.
Held under the theme “Safe Port, Safe Ship,” the event underscored the importance of improving working conditions, safety, and welfare of dockworkers across Nigeria’s seaports.
Represented by the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, the Minister said dockworkers remain indispensable to the growth of the blue economy.
“Today reminds us that our dockworkers are vital to creating a maritime industry where safety is assured and productivity increases.
“You are the first link in the trade chain that fuels our economy and turns the potential of the blue economy into real national growth,” Oyetola said.
He noted that the Federal Government has launched several capacity-building and safety initiatives, including the provision of modern protective equipment for dockworkers and riverine operators. Through NIMASA, he said, government is enhancing safety training, emergency response capabilities, and professional development schemes to improve port efficiency and worker welfare.
The President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu, praised the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and its agencies for prioritising dockworkers’ welfare.
He expressed appreciation to NIMASA, terminal operators, stevedores, and maritime stakeholders for recognising dockworkers’ vital contributions to trade and economic growth.
Bunu also lauded the Minister of Labour and Employment, Alhaji Muhammadu Dingyadi, for his continued support and commitment to protecting Nigerian workers’ rights.
Representing Dingyadi at the event, Mr. Emmanuel Igbinosun, Director of Productivity, Measurement and Labour Standards, urged all stakeholders to maintain global best practices and ensure safe, fair, and dignified working environments in line with International Labour Organisation (ILO) standards.
In goodwill messages, the Nigerian Ports Authority, Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Nigerian Association of Stevedoring Operators (NASO), and Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN) pledged continued collaboration to ensure safer port environments and improved dockworker welfare.
The Day of the Dockworker, now in its third edition, celebrates the resilience, professionalism, and courage of Nigerian dockworkers while advancing ongoing reforms to make ports safer, more productive, and globally competitive.
