The Maritime Security Providers Association of Nigeria (MASPAN) and the Alumni of Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron (AMANO) have praised the leadership of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) and its President-General, Comrade (Prince) Dr. Adewale Adeyanju, for his unwavering commitment to maritime security and efforts in combating drug trafficking and human smuggling.
Both organisations lauded Dr. Adeyanju’s contributions following the successful conclusion of the MASPAN-AMANO 2024 Conference on Drugs, Human Smuggling & Trafficking: The Evolving Maritime Security Threats to Ships & Seafarers.
In a statement, signed by MWUN Head of Media, Comrade Johnkennedy Ikemefuna, the groups commended Adeyanju’s foresight and dedication to ensuring a drug-free maritime sector.
“We deeply appreciate the sterling leadership qualities of Dr. Adeyanju for his foresight and immense contributions towards a drug-free maritime sector and the fight against human smuggling and trafficking,” said the statement.
The groups emphasised that Adeyanju’s leadership has played a crucial role in raising awareness about the threats these illicit activities pose to ships, seafarers, and the wider maritime industry.
Adeyanju, who also serves as the Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Vice President Global for the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), was the Special Guest at the conference.
His leadership in the maritime space has drawn accolades from industry stakeholders for his role in promoting the well-being of seafarers and advocating for improved security standards.
The statement also highlighted the contributions of Comrade Francis Bunu, Deputy President-General of MWUN, for his goodwill message during the event.
Bunu, himself a seasoned seafarer, was recognised for his support and dedication to the welfare of Nigeria’s seafarers.
“His goodwill message was a morale booster for participants during the occasion, and his unwavering support for the nation’s seafarers cannot be overemphasised,” the statement read.
The conference, which aimed to raise awareness of the dangers posed by drug trafficking and human smuggling within the maritime sector, saw robust participation from various maritime security stakeholders. Both MASPAN and AMANO reiterated their commitment to supporting MWUN and the continued fight against these threats.
Comrade Ikemefuna further noted in the statement that the conference marked a significant step in the ongoing efforts to secure Nigeria’s maritime space from criminal activities.
“The event came to a successful end with MASPAN and AMANO avowing their unflinching support for the President-General of MWUN and their commitment towards the course of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria at all times,” Ikemefuna said.