The President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, has pledged the Union’s readiness to collaborate strategically with the Barge Operators Association of Nigeria (BOAN) to deepen industrial cooperation and address mutual interests in the maritime sector.
This assurance came during a courtesy visit by the BOAN leadership to the MWUN Secretariat located at Osho Drive, Olodi-Apapa, Lagos. The visit, led by BOAN Vice President, Mr. Hyginus Chichebem Ndukwe, was aimed at strengthening ties between both bodies and charting a course for sustainable partnership within Nigeria’s maritime ecosystem.
Speaking during the interactive session, Mr. Chichebem noted that the visit served a dual purpose: first, to formally congratulate Comrade Bunu on his recent election as President-General of MWUN, and secondly, to initiate discussions on areas of possible collaboration that would enhance maritime operations and workforce welfare.
According to him, BOAN believes in the capacity and influence of MWUN as a critical stakeholder in the maritime industry, especially given its wide operational reach and established presence across seaports and jetties nationwide. He added that the Association is keen on aligning with the Union to foster seamless operational synergies in barge services and related logistics.
“We see this visit not only as a congratulatory gesture but as a deliberate step to build a functional and mutually beneficial relationship with the Maritime Workers Union. We are convinced that MWUN, under your leadership, will provide the enabling environment for such a partnership to thrive,” Chichebem said.
In his response, Comrade Bunu, a seasoned sailor, maritime administrator, and Delta State-born labour leader, welcomed the BOAN delegation warmly and expressed appreciation for their visit. He reiterated MWUN’s openness to genuine collaborations that will advance the interest of maritime workers and industry stakeholders.
He emphasized that the Union under his watch is committed to supporting initiatives that promote industrial harmony, efficiency, and improved standards within the maritime sector. While acknowledging the proposal presented by BOAN, he assured the executives of MWUN’s willingness to work closely with them towards achieving a productive partnership.
“We are open to any collaboration that will move the maritime sector forward and enhance the welfare of our members. Your visit is timely, and I assure you of our full cooperation once the terms of engagement are clearly established,” Bunu stated.
The visit concluded with both parties expressing optimism about future engagements that will strengthen operational frameworks and boost the maritime sector’s contribution to the national economy.
