The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has announced its intention to shut down all seaports, jetties, and oil & gas platforms across the country on Tuesday, January 9th, 2024.
The drastic action, according to a press release issued by the union on Wednesday comes as a response to the continued defiance of the International Oil Companies (IOCs) and stevedoring contractors towards existing stevedoring laws.
The union claimed that it has exhausted all avenues, including writing letters, issuance of press releases, giving ultimatums, and even government orders, all of which have been disregarded by the IOCs and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) informing that the latest of such directive was sent on June 13th, 2023, remains unanswered.
MWUN in the press release specifically demanded that the IOCs should comply with the existing stevedoring regulations, signed by all relevant stakeholders.
The NPA, as the industry regulator, holds the power to grant operational licenses and ensure adherence to the rules. However, MWUN accuses the NPA of failing in its responsibility, allowing the IOCs to operate with impunity.
The union lamented that the frustration stems from a long-standing struggle dating back to 2018.
The union informed that it has repeatedly alerted the NPA to the IOCs’ disregard for both the regulations and the remittance of union dues with no progress made and as such has been left with no choice but to resort to strike action.
While the union acknowledges its role as a responsible social partner that operates strictly within the legal framework, MWUN however said the continued disregard for established regulations has pushed them to this extreme measure.
The strike action according to the union will effectively commence on Tuesday, January 9th, 2024, following a three-day grace period starting from today, January 4th.
This action poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s maritime sector, potentially triggering delays, financial losses, and disruptions in the supply chain.
It remains to be seen how the situation unfolds. Whether the NPA or the IOCs choose to address MWUN’s grievances or whether the strike goes ahead as planned will have a major impact on the Nigerian economy and the livelihoods of countless individuals.
