By Oluyinka Onigbinde
The President-General of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Francis Bunu, has called for an urgent review of workers’ wages and welfare, warning that the current condition of Nigerian workers falls short of global standards.
Bunu made the call on Friday while addressing journalists during the International Workers’ Day celebration in Abuja, where he lamented the worsening economic realities facing workers across the country.
“The condition of workers generally in Nigeria is below expectation. It is nothing to write home about. It is below what workers can take home anywhere in the world,” he said.
He noted that Nigerian workers are increasingly lagging behind their counterparts globally, stressing that the situation offers little cause for celebration despite the significance of May Day.
The MWUN leader charged labour unions nationwide to intensify negotiations for improved remuneration and welfare through effective Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA), especially in the face of rising living costs.
According to him, recent increases in fuel prices have compounded the hardship faced by workers, making it imperative for labour leaders to take decisive action.
“This is not a better time for Nigerian workers. Labour leaders should stand up for workers and negotiate better salaries and packages,” he stated.
Bunu also used the occasion to call on the Federal Government to urgently address the country’s worsening security situation, describing it as a major impediment to economic growth and job creation.
“My message to the government is simple: let them go to work. No time is late. If they act now and things improve, Nigerians will praise them,” he said.
He emphasized that no nation can achieve sustainable development without guaranteeing the safety of lives and property.
“Without a secure nation, there can be no jobs and no meaningful development. Security should be on the front burner of government,” he added.
On the outlook for maritime workers, Bunu expressed optimism, noting that ongoing efforts within the sector would eventually yield improved welfare and working conditions.
“We have a big hope. We believe those in our sector are going to smile tomorrow,” he said.
He commended Nigerian workers for their resilience and dedication despite economic pressures, and also praised maritime employers and industry stakeholders for their continued commitment to the growth of the sector.
