The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government Owned Companies (SSASCGOC) maritime branch, has issued a stark ultimatum to the Nigerian government, warning of potential port closures in response to a planned 50% reduction in internally generated revenues (IGR) from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
During a press briefing held in Apapa on Monday, February 12, 2024, representatives of the maritime workers vehemently criticized a directive issued by the Federal Ministry of Finance on December 28, 2023. This directive mandates all federal departments, ministries, agencies, and parastatals to automatically deduct 50% of their IGR, a move vehemently opposed by the unions.
Akinola Bodunde, President of SSASCGOC, emphasized the adverse consequences of the proposed revenue reduction on the financial stability and operational efficiency of agencies like the NPA. He stressed that such a significant decrease in revenue would severely impede critical maritime operations, such as dredging port channels and infrastructure maintenance, potentially resulting in disruptions to vessel traffic and port activities.
Echoing Bodunde’s concerns, MWUN President-General Adewale Adeyanju stressed the necessity of sufficient funding for employee welfare, training, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. Adeyanju urged the government to reconsider the directive, proposing a more moderate reduction of 30% instead of the proposed 50% to alleviate the strain on maritime operations.
Warning of escalated action if their demands are not addressed, Adeyanju declared that the unions would mobilize their members for a nationwide strike, effectively shutting down all seaports across the country.
Amidst the brewing standoff between the unions and the government, the Save Humanity Advocacy Centre (SHAC) has raised alarms about suspected widespread fraud at the Rivers Port of the Nigerian Port Authority (NPA). The organization has threatened legal action if Mr. Adams Michael, the port manager, does not provide detailed information regarding the port’s activities.
The unions’ ultimatum and the looming specter of legal battles underscore the mounting tensions within Nigeria’s maritime sector. As negotiations continue, the fate of the nation’s seaports hangs in the balance, carrying significant implications for trade, commerce, and economic stability.
