FG, MWUN Sign Minimum Condition of Service Agreement for Maritime Workers.
In a significant step forward for the maritime industry, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, oversaw the signing of a landmark agreement establishing minimum standards of condition of service for workers in the shipping sector. The agreement, which was finalized in a ceremony on Friday, marks a historic achievement in improving labor conditions within the industry.
The agreement, facilitated by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), was signed by key stakeholders, including the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) and the Shipping, Shipping Agencies, Clearing and Forwarding Employers Association (SACFEA). The event, held in Lagos, is seen as a milestone in the Ministry’s efforts to ensure that the Marine and Blue Economy is underpinned by principles of fairness, respect, and sustainability.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Oyetola highlighted the importance of the maritime sector as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy. He emphasized that the well-being of the workforce is crucial to the sector’s success, stating that the agreement is a reflection of the current administration’s commitment to upholding workers’ rights and welfare.
“The establishment of this minimum condition of service is a testament to our collective dedication to ensuring that maritime workers enjoy decent working conditions, fair remuneration, job security, and access to necessary welfare benefits,” Oyetola said. He also noted that the agreement would foster fair competition and create a uniform standard across the industry, discouraging exploitation and promoting ethical practices.
The Minister called on the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria to remain vigilant in advocating for workers’ rights and ensuring compliance with the agreed standards. He assured that the government would continue to provide an enabling environment for the enforcement and continuous improvement of these standards.
Akutah Pius Ukeyima, the Executive Secretary and CEO of the Nigerian Shippers Council, praised the Minister for his leadership in bringing about this historic agreement. He also commended the MWUN for its strategic and refined approach to securing better conditions for workers.
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Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, President-General of MWUN, expressed optimism that the agreement would put an end to unfair labor practices and significantly improve working conditions in the maritime sector. He acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders, including Minister Oyetola, SACFEA Chairman Boma Alabi SAN, and the leadership of the NSC, in overcoming challenges to achieve this milestone.
In her remarks, Boma Alabi SAN, Chairperson of SACFEA, lauded the agreement as the highest standard of condition of service in any industry in Nigeria, signaling a new era of fairness and respect for maritime workers.
The signing of this agreement is expected to set a new benchmark in labor standards within the Nigerian maritime industry, ensuring that workers are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
