The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has declared its unequivocal support for Nigeria’s campaign to regain its seat in Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, while commending the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its outstanding strides in enhancing maritime security and governance.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos over the weekend, MWUN President General, Comrade Francis Bunu, highlighted NIMASA’s transformative role, particularly in the successful reduction of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea — a region once notorious for maritime insecurity.
“We now enjoy peace on our waters, and this is a remarkable achievement that not only ensures the safety of maritime operators but also promotes regional stability and boosts investor confidence,” Bunu stated.
He underscored that NIMASA’s proactive measures in maritime safety have significantly elevated Nigeria’s standing within the global maritime community.
Bunu further pledged that MWUN would leverage its extensive network of international affiliates to rally global support for Nigeria’s IMO Council bid.
He emphasized that Nigeria’s maritime sector possesses the expertise, capacity, and leadership to contribute meaningfully to the global maritime governance framework.
“Nigeria is long overdue for a return to the IMO Council. A vote for Nigeria is a vote for Africa and for enhanced representation of the continent’s maritime interests at the global level,” he declared.
The MWUN leader also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the creation of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry, describing the move as both “bold and visionary.”
According to him, the new ministry is poised to unlock vast investment opportunities while generating employment across Nigeria’s maritime value chain.
“The establishment of the Ministry is a strategic initiative that aligns with emerging global economic trends. It will open new frontiers for economic diversification, create job opportunities, and empower Nigerian youth through skill development within the expansive blue economy sector,” Bunu added.
Reaffirming MWUN’s commitment to fostering industrial harmony and sectoral growth, Bunu assured stakeholders of the union’s continued collaboration with all maritime industry players, particularly within the dock labour sub-sector.
“Under my leadership, MWUN will remain committed to dialogue, cooperation, and initiatives that promote peace, progress, and sustainable growth in Nigeria’s maritime industry,” he pledged.
As the international community prepares to observe the 2025 Day of the Seafarer under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,” Bunu stressed the vital role of seafarers in sustaining global trade and the importance of responsible ocean governance.
“MWUN stands resolute in its advocacy for the rights and welfare of Nigerian seafarers. We are committed to ensuring decent work conditions, fair treatment, and the responsible stewardship of our ocean resources. Our seafarers are the unsung heroes of global commerce, and their contributions deserve our utmost appreciation,” he concluded.
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