MWUN President Bunu, ILO Regional Advisor meet to discuss maritime sector reforms

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

The President-General of Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, has received the International Labour Organization (ILO) Regional Advisor, Dr. Amos Hosea Kuje, as part of efforts to strengthen the relationship between the ILO and MWUN.

Receiving the ILO advisor at the headquarters of the MWUN at Osho Drive, Olodi Apapa on Tuesday 19, November, Bunu revealed that the visit  was a familiar one, given Dr. Kuje’s long-standing involvement with the Maritime Labour Union.

Comrade Bunu and Dr Kuje during the meeting

The visit he stated  aimed to strengthen ties between the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), focusing on key areas of the Union’s operations.

In a release signed by Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna, Head of Media, MWUN, Dr. Kuje has also come to felicitate with the PG of MWUN and his executives over their recent electoral victory, and their new designated positions in the Union.

The ILO official, Dr. Kuje, emphasized the need for swift implementation of Carbotage laws to boost the Nigerian Maritime Industry, citing its current ineffectiveness as a setback for sailors. He advocated for increased employment and regular training of Nigerian Seafarers to equip them with modern operational skills, enabling them to compete globally.

Dr. Amos advised Comrade Bunu to initiate a single Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) covering Ratings and Officers on vessels, and upgrade Maritime Training Institutions to bring Nigerian Seafarers up to global standards, boosting their recognition worldwide.

The ILO official stressed that upgrading training institutions would significantly enhance the reputation of Nigerian Seafarers globally, making them more competitive.

PG Bunu thanked Dr. Kuje for the visit, saying it was expected and appreciated by the Union’s members and executives. He assured Dr. Amos that the discussed points would be implemented as outlined, with commitment from his team.

Comrade Bunu, a veteran sailor and maritime administrator, assured Dr. Amos Kuje that he would take action with relevant agencies to address the issues discussed, aiming to boost Nigerian Seafarers’ welfare and enhance maritime sector productivity. He thanked Dr. Amos for the visit and promised to keep him updated on progress.