…launches document on Dock Labour
Today, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) declared that the safety of dockworkers in their workplace is a right, not a privilege. They urged labour employers to renew their commitment to improved workplace safety for the Nigerian dockworker.
Dayo Mobereola, director general of NIMASA, declared in Lagos during the 2024 Day of the Dockworker commemoration event, stating that efficiency in the workplace can only be guaranteed when the safety of dockworkers is assured.
Jibril Abba, executive director of Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services in NIMASA who represented the director general of NIMASA assured stakeholders that under his leadership, the Agency will endeavour to create an environment that enables maritime labour to function according to international best practices.
In his words “NIMASA is committed to supporting you with the tools, resources, and training necessary to enhance efficiency. By working smarter, we boost our productivity and 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, “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.”
According to him, the document codifies the implementation of approved conditions of service and collective bargaining agreements on minimum standards.”
Adewale Adeyanju, president general of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) advocated for employers at the port terminals to provide insurance policies for dockworkers and their families.
He noted that MWUN also called on the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (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.
In his words “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”.
On his part, Abubakar Dantsoho, managing director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) noted that the dock labour industry is a force to be reckoned with.
In his paper presentation, Charles Okaga, the general manager of Marine and Operations, NPA, Dantsoho called on other government agencies to support dockworkers in capacity building for effective port terminal operations.
In her address, Vicky Haastrup, chairperson of the Seaports Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN) described dockworkers as unsung heroes but commended NIMASA for recognising their contributions.
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