The Honourable Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, His Excellency, Adegboyega Oyetola, has said that the Ministry has begun the process to address decayed infrastructures to aid efficiency and competitiveness of maritime space.
Oyetola stated this in this year’s edition of dock workers day organized by Shipping Correspondent Association of Nigeria in Lagos, recently.. He was represented by the Director of Press and Public Relations , Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy, Mr. Olujimi Oyetomi.
He also stressed that the Ministry has recorded a milestone with the signing of Memorandum of Understanding on a minimum standard for workers’ wages.
In his contribution, the former managing director, Nigerian Shippers’ Council. (NSC) Chief Adebayo Sarumi said Dock Workers’ are pivotal in the nation’s maritime sector.
Sarumi, who was the Chairman took a look at the history of Dock Workers and the role they have been playing at the nation’s ports.
The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Barr. Akutah Pius, MON reiterates the need to prioritize the welfare of Dock Workers operating at the nation’s port terminals.
Akutah said that if others are receiving benefits, the workers should not be left out.
The President General of Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria, Hon. Adewale Adeyanju, who appreciated personalities that graced the occasion, called for the renewal of the concession agreement for private investors.
Adeyanju noted that the country has witnessed remarkable progress since the ports were concessioned to private operators.
The President, Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN), Mr. Eugene Agha noted that the need to harness the potential of ocean resources informed the establishment of Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy.
Agha said both the government and stakeholders are working assiduously to make the potentials a reality for the development of the nation’s economy.
Also speaking, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists ( NUJ), Lagos Chapter, Mr. Leye Ajayi attributed the role of Dock Workers and how they have been able to transform the nation’s ports.
The President, Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria, Princess Vicky Haastrup emphasized the need to give the workers necessary support and encouragement.
The former Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Capt. Ibrahim Olugbade said that the operational activities of Dock Workers cannot be overlooked at the ports and deserve commendation.
