NIMASA Launches Document On Reviewed Minimum Standards For Dock Labour

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) on Wednesday emphasized that the safety of dockworkers in their workplace is a right and not a privilege.

Cablenews24 reports that the Agency’s Director General, Dr Dayo Mobereola, made the observation in Lagos during the 2024 Day of the Dockworker commemoration event, urging employers of labour to renew their commitment to improved workplace safety for the Nigerian dockworker.

Mobereola, whose address was delivered by the Agency’s Executive Director of Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, Mr Jibril Abba, also maintained that efficiency in the workplace can only be guaranteed when the safety of dockworkers is assured.

L-R: Executive Director Operations, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Engr. Fatai Taiye Adeyemi; Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, Jibril Abba; Former President, Dockworkers Union, Comrade Uzor Ije Ukaumuna; President General, Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, MWUN, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju and Chairperson, Seaports Terminal Operators of Nigeria ,STOAN, Princess Vicky Haastrup during the 2024 Day of the Dockworker celebration in Lagos.

Consequently, he 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”, he further said, before announcing the launch of the Reviewed Minimum Standard for Dock Labour Industry booklet at the event, adding: “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.”

He added “This document codifies the implementation of approved conditions of service and collective bargaining agreements on minimum standards.”

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.

MWUN also called on the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to focus on regulating and compelling terminal operators to ensure that the health and welfare of dockworkers are prioritized. Adeyanju noted that the inherent risks associated with cargo handling and their unique operations must be considered in line with their well-being.