The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) rolls out the drums to celebrate this year’s Dockworkers Day, stating that dockworkers’ safety remains a fundamental right
This year’s Dockworkers Day celebration packaged by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) a memorable event in the history of the commemoration. The event took place in Surulere, Lagos on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 with the theme “Safety First, Efficiency Always”.
During the celebration, NIMASA declared that the safety of dockworkers in their workplace was a right and not a privilege, and urged employers of labor to renew their commitment to improved workplace safety for the Nigerian dockworker.
Dr. Dayo Mobereola, the NIMASA Director General who made the declaration stated that efficiency in the workplace could only be guaranteed when the safety of dockworkers is assured.
Mobereola’s address was delivered by NIMASA Executive Director in charge of Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, Mr. Jibril Abba, who assured stakeholders that under the current administration, the Agency would endeavor to create an environment that can enable maritime labor to function according to international best practices.
Mobereola said, “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.
Abba also announced the launch of the Reviewed Minimum Standard for Dock Labour Industry booklet at the event, stating that, “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.
“This document codifies the implementation of approved conditions of service and collective bargaining agreements on minimum standards.”
Speaking at the event, 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 also urged on the NIMASA to focus on regulating and compelling terminal operators to ensure that the health and welfare of dockworkers are prioritized. Adeyanju noted that the inherent risks associated with cargo handling and their unique operations must be considered in line with their well-being.
He said, “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”.
Also speaking at the event, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, noted that the dock labour industry is a force to be reckoned with.
Dantsoho, who was represented by the General Manager, Marine and Operations of NPA, Dr. Charles Okaga, urged other government agencies to support dockworkers in capacity building for effective port terminal operations.
