The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mohammed Bello-Koko, has successfully urged the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) to suspend its planned strike. This comes after the NPA played a crucial role in brokering peace between the union and operators in the oil and gas industry, addressing concerns related to non-compliance with Stevedoring regulations.
Last week, the MWUN had issued a stern warning, threatening to shut down the nation’s seaports, jetties, and oil and gas platforms due to the perceived refusal of International Oil Companies (IOCs) and Stevedoring Contractors to comply with Stevedoring Extant Laws. Grievances included “lack of access to work locations” and the “lack of remittance of 3 percent MWUN levy by Stevedores.”
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Despite numerous attempts through letters, press releases, ultimatums, marine notices, and ministerial orders, the union claimed that their concerns were systematically ignored, with the NPA facing criticism for allegedly allowing the IOCs to operate without proper oversight.
However, responding to the escalating situation, Mohammed Bello-Koko emphasized the NPA’s commitment to maintaining peace and industrial harmony within the maritime sector. “We will do all it takes to ensure industrial harmony and prevent the shutdown of crucial production platforms of the oil and gas, and allied industries that maritime workers control. The national economy cannot afford any shutdown at this time,” he asserted.
A breakthrough was achieved during a meeting held at the NPA’s headquarters in Marina, Lagos State. A communiqué was signed, addressing the workers’ grievances and resulting in the suspension of the planned strike action.
Notable figures present at the meeting included Mr. Adedapo Segun, Executive Vice-President (Downstream) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited; Adewale Adeyanju, Deputy President of the Nigerian Labour Congress; Mr. Bolaji Sunmola, President of the National Association of Stevedoring Operators; Mr. Bayo Adenrele, Managing Director of the Nigerian Pipeline Storage Company, and representatives from the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority.
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This collaborative effort signifies a positive step towards ensuring stability in the maritime sector, averting potential disruptions to vital production platforms and safeguarding the interests of both workers and industry stakeholders.
