The President General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Com. Adewale Adeyanju, has called for the rehabilitation of all ports’ access roads in the country, lamenting that the current state poses a significant challenge to the maritime industry.
Adeyanju made this passionate appeal during his address at the maiden celebration of the Day of the Dockworker in Lagos on Thursday
In his speech, Adeyanju emphasized the critical importance of efficient port access roads, highlighting the adverse impact of their deteriorating condition on both workers and the broader economic activities within the maritime sector.
He expressed concern over the challenges faced by dockworkers and the potential threats to safety and well-being due to the poor state of these vital roadways.
“A house will fall on itself without a strong foundation. Similarly, the maritime industry’s foundation relies on well-maintained port access roads,” Adeyanju declared.
He acknowledged the indispensable role played by dockworkers in ensuring effective port operations and stressed that their contributions should not be hindered by inadequate infrastructure.
While commending the efforts of various stakeholders, including government authorities, Adeyanju called for urgent and comprehensive rehabilitation of port access roads across the nation. He highlighted the need for a collaborative approach involving relevant ministries, agencies, and industry players to address the longstanding challenges faced by the maritime community.
“As we celebrate the Day of the Dockworkers, we must recognize that their efficiency is intertwined with the state of our port access roads. It is time for substantial investments and strategic interventions to upgrade and maintain these crucial arteries,” Adeyanju asserted.
The MWUN President General also urged the National Assembly to consider legislation establishing an annual Dock Workers Day, emphasizing the significance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of dockworkers to the maritime sector.
Earlier in his welcome address, Mr Victor Ochei, Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabbage, NIMASA, said the event was NIMASA complying with the International Maritime Organisation’s directive on celebrating the dockworkers.
“We appreciate the veterans, those that laid the foundation, your contribution will never be in vain, they have done very well.
“In the administration of Jamoh, we have not seen the kinds of things we see before, not because the dockworkers have stopped agitating, but because they do it in an orderly manner, they don’t fight.
“We appreciate Adeyanju for his tenure as the president of the union and his steadfastness and maturity in leading the union. We believe going forward everything will be fulfilling,” he said.
