The President-General of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, on Tuesday received the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Regional Advisor for Labour Conventions, Dr Amos Hosea Kuje, at the Union’s headquarters in Olodi Apapa, Lagos.
Dr Amos’ visit was aimed at strengthening the long-standing relationship between the ILO and MWUN, while offering guidance on strategic areas of the Union’s operations within the maritime sector.
During the engagement, the ILO advisor emphasised the urgent need for the effective implementation of the Cabotage laws, noting that their current ineffectiveness was undermining the prospects of Nigerian sailors in the maritime industry.
He called for increased employment of Nigerian seafarers and regular training to align their competencies with global operational standards.
He stressed that continuous and modernised training was essential for Nigerian seafarers to remain competitive both locally and internationally, particularly as maritime operations become more sophisticated worldwide.
The ILO official also urged MWUN to commence work on a single Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for both Ratings and Officers on board vessels, saying such a unified agreement would strengthen labour standards and welfare provisions across board.
Additionally, Dr Amos advocated for the upgrading of Maritime Training Institutions to ensure that graduating cadets match the competence levels of their global counterparts, noting that improved training facilities would significantly enhance the profile of Nigerian seafarers globally.
In his response, Comrade Bunu expressed appreciation for the visit and reiterated that the Union remained committed to acting on all issues discussed, assuring that they would be implemented with purpose and diligence.
The MWUN President-General pledged to work with relevant agencies to ensure that the recommendations were pursued with the required zeal for the advancement of Nigerian seafarers and improved productivity in the maritime sector.
Comrade Bunu and his executive team thanked Dr Amos for his continued support and promised to maintain close engagement with the ILO in all areas of collaboration.