Maritime Workers Reaffirm Opposition to Ports and Harbour Bill
The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has reiterated its opposition to the Ports and Harbour Bill currently before the National Assembly. The union contends that the proposed bill is structured to favor a select few individuals at the expense of the majority of Nigerians.
This stance suggests that the MWUN believes the bill may not be in the best interests of the broader population and advocates for a reconsideration of its provisions.
The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has launched an in-house magazine named “Maritime Labour Voice.” The publication aims to foster a harmonious working environment, encouraging industrial peace within the maritime sector. President-General of MWUN, Prince Adewale Adeyanju, emphasized that the magazine would serve as a platform to represent the voice of those often unheard.
The glossy publication features specialized content on the blue economy, labor activities, port operations, and more. The maiden edition was officially unveiled by Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of SIFAX Group.
According to Prince Adeyanju, “The primary purpose of this magazine is to promote a harmonious working environment that would stimulate industrial peace, to represent the voice of the voiceless, and to project alternative voices where necessary.
“The concept of the Blue Economy, otherwise called marine economy emerged as a response to threats posed by the reckless use of the oceans. The Blue Economy is gaining popularity in development circles among nations.
“It is instructive to note that Nigeria is a maritime nation blessed with valuable water resources that contribute immensely to the socio-economic development of our country in terms of foods, mineral resources, and marine transport.
“This is perhaps another reason why the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria roundly rejects the new proposed Port and Harbour Bill as it is a complete antithesis to the desired long-term vision of controlled but sustainable maritime sector growth.
“The new publication ‘Maritime Labour Voice’ is the outcome of the collective dream of the leaders and members of the union.”
During the launch event, Princess Vicky Haastrup, Chairperson of the Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN) and the event’s Chairman, praised the timely initiative of establishing the magazine. She emphasized that the magazine would enhance the understanding of maritime workers within the sector.
Haastrup congratulated the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) for consistently contributing to the growth of the maritime sector and commended the leadership style of Prince Adewale Adeyanju, expressing support for the union.
Representing the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mohammed Bello-Koko, Mrs. Sarah Bala described the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry as a game-changer in Nigeria. She highlighted the importance of the magazine and commended MWUN for the novel initiative, urging sustainable approaches to keep the publication running.
