Bunu calls for maritime academy reforms, national shipping line revival on Seafarers Day

…Receives Adeyanju’s strong endorsement 

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The President-General of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, has called for urgent reforms at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, and the revival of a national shipping line as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime sector and create opportunities for indigenous seafarers.

Bunu made the call while commemorating the 2026 Day of the Seafarer, celebrated globally on June 26 under the theme, “Carrying World Trade, Carrying the Risks.”

According to him, Nigerian seafarers continue to play critical roles in sustaining global commerce despite growing security challenges and geopolitical tensions affecting major international shipping routes.

He noted that while seafarers remain indispensable to world trade, the country must address long-standing structural challenges hindering the growth of its maritime workforce.

The MWUN President-General expressed concern over the state of maritime education in Nigeria, particularly at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, where he said many graduates leave without the certifications and practical sea-time experience required to compete effectively in the global labour market.

Bunu lamented that the situation has left many young maritime professionals unemployed despite years of training and investment.

“Our young graduates deserve opportunities to develop their careers and contribute meaningfully to the maritime industry. Without internationally recognised certifications and practical exposure, many of them are disadvantaged in the global market,” he said.

He also renewed calls for the Federal Government to revive a national shipping carrier, recalling the role previously played by the defunct Nigerian National Shipping Line (NNSL) in providing employment, training opportunities and career advancement for Nigerian seafarers.

According to him, the absence of an indigenous shipping line has created a major gap in manpower development and reduced opportunities for local professionals to gain sea-going experience.

Bunu urged the Federal Government and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to prioritise policies that would facilitate the establishment of a viable national carrier capable of flying Nigeria’s flag on international waters while supporting local content development.

He stressed that the revival of a national fleet would not only boost employment but also strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leading maritime nation in Africa.

The labour leader further praised Nigerian seafarers for their resilience, professionalism and dedication despite the risks associated with operating in volatile maritime environments such as the Red Sea, Strait of Hormuz, Black Sea and other conflict-prone regions.

Meanwhile, former President-General of MWUN and current Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, commended Bunu’s leadership of the union, describing him as a worthy successor who has continued to uphold the values and vision of the organisation.

Adeyanju said Bunu’s emergence as MWUN President-General has vindicated the confidence reposed in him by maritime workers and labour leaders.

“There could not have been a better successor than Comrade Francis Bunu. His heart is filled with compassion, love, kindness and commitment to the welfare of workers. He has demonstrated outstanding leadership and has continued to advance the cause of maritime workers,” Adeyanju said.

The labour leader added that if given another opportunity to make the choice, Bunu would remain his preferred successor.

“If I had a second opportunity in MWUN, Comrade Bunu would still be my main man. He has proven beyond doubt that there was no mistake in entrusting him with the leadership of the union. I have absolutely no regrets installing him as my successor,” he stated.

Adeyanju noted that under Bunu’s leadership, MWUN has maintained industrial harmony, strengthened stakeholder engagement and continued to advocate for improved welfare and professional development for maritime workers across the country.

As the world marks the 2026 Day of the Seafarer, stakeholders say Bunu’s call for reforms in maritime education and the revival of a national shipping line highlights the urgent need for strategic investments that will unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s maritime industry and create sustainable opportunities for future generations of seafarers.