Maritime workers suspend proposed strike

By Seun Ibiyemi

Following intervention by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) on Monday, the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has again shelved the planned industrial action against the International Oil Companies (IOCs) for their failure to comply with the extant stevedoring regulation (Marine notice 2014)

In a statement on Monday signed by the President-General and Secretary-General, Prince Adewale Adeyanju and Felix Akingboye respectively, the leadership of the union cited interventions by management of Nigerian Ports Authority and Nigerian Shippers’ Council.as the reason for the suspension of the planned industrial action.

Recall that the imbroglio which commenced in 2019 is yet to have a headway due to failure of the IOCs to yield to the demands of the union

Also recall that the Honourable Minister of Transportation, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi had intervened where he gave 7 days ultimatum to the IOCs without attendant success.

But in what seems to be another benefit of doubt, the union leaders said due to its responsible nature, it has decided to give the IOCs time to complete all processes to comply with the law

Part of the statement read, “Following the 14 days Notice given to the Federal Government of Nigeria on non-compliance with the extant stevedoring regulation (Marine Notice 106, 2014) by the International Oil Companies (IOCs), the Managements of the Nigerian Ports Authority and Nigerian Shippers Council held separate meeting with the Union (MWUN) on Friday 25” February, 2022 to deliberate the way forward.

“Both managements appealed to the Union to be given time to prevail on the IOCs to comply with the extant stevedoring law and a time lag of 30days effective 252 “ February 2022 was granted.

“However, at another meeting held with Management of NPA, representatives of the IOCs, NNPC, NAPIM and NASO today 283  February 2022, it was unanimously agreed that two (2) weeks effective from today 28” February, 2022 be given to the IOCs to complete all processes to comply with the law and commence implementation of engaging the stevedores and Dockworkers on their oil platforms and report back to the Authority and the Union for review

“Consequent upon the above, and the plea of well-meaning Nigerians, the Union as a patriotic and responsible organization hereby temporarily suspends its planned industrial action billed to commence 12am 1° March 2022.”