… as agency launches document on Reviewed Minimum Standards for Dock Labour
It was a time to appreciate and celebrate dockworkers in the Nigerian maritime sector as the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has declared that the safety of dockworkers in their workplace is a right and not a privilege.
Director General of the Agency,Dr. Dayo Mobereola, made the declaration while delivering his speech at the the 2024 Day of the Dockworker commemoration event held in Lagos yesterday.
He urged employers of labour to renew their commitment to improved workplace safety for the Nigerian dockworker.
Mobereola stated that efficiency in the workplace can only be guaranteed when the safety of dockworkers is assured.
Mobereola, whose address was delivered by the Agency’s Executive Director of Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, Mr. Jibril Abba, 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 not only boost our productivity but also 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.
“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.
“This document codifies the implementation of approved conditions of service and collective bargaining agreements on minimum standards,” he stated.
The President General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, used the occasion to advocate for employers at the port terminals to provide insurance policies for dockworkers and their families.
He also called on NIMASA to focus on regulating and compelling terminal operators to ensure that the health and welfare of dockworkers are prioritised.
Adeyanju noted that the inherent risks associated with cargo handling and their unique operations must be considered in line with their well-being.
His words: “As a Union we strongly urge the terminal operators to prioritise 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, recognising the inherent risks associated with cargo handling and their unique operations.”
On his part, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, noted that the dock labour industry is a force to be reckoned with.
In his paper presentation, delivered by the General Manager of Marine and Operations, NPA, Dr. Charles Okaga, Dantsoho called on other government agencies to support dockworkers in capacity building for effective port terminal operations.
In her address, Chairperson of the Seaports Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Princess Vicky Haastrup, described dockworkers as unsung heroes but commended NIMASA for recognising their contributions.