MWUN President, NLC leaders celebrate Women’s strength, resilience on International Women’s Day

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Francis Bunu, and the Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Adewale Adeyanju, have joined the global community in celebrating women for their resilience, strength, and immense contributions to society as the world marks International Women’s Day.

In separate messages to commemorate the occasion, both labour leaders paid glowing tributes to women across the world, describing them as indispensable pillars of families, communities, and nations.

Bunu described women as one of the most precious gifts bestowed on humanity, noting that their presence brings balance, beauty, and meaning to life.

According to him, the world would have been incomplete without women, stressing that their role in sustaining humanity and nurturing society remains invaluable.

“The absence of women on this planet would have made life dull and incomplete. Their presence bridges the gap that makes life more meaningful, enjoyable, and fulfilling,” he said.

The maritime labour leader further described women as the “salt of the earth,” emphasizing that their contributions continue to shape societies and strengthen human relationships across the globe.

He also used the opportunity to specially commend women within the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria for their dedication and resilience in advancing the union’s objectives.

Bunu encouraged female members of the union to remain strong, committed, and proud of their roles within the maritime labour movement, assuring them of his continued support and appreciation.

Similarly, Adeyanju who doubles as praised women worldwide for their courage, resilience, and vital contributions to nation building and global development.

Adeyanju, who also serves as President of the International Transport Workers’ Federation(ITWF), described women as the foundation upon which societies are built, noting that they remain the source from which humanity continues to thrive.

He said women play critical roles in maintaining peace, promoting development, and shaping the future of nations.

Encouraging women to remain steadfast in their various pursuits, Adeyanju urged them not to be discouraged by societal challenges or gender barriers.

He noted that many of the most successful women around the world have achieved remarkable milestones by refusing to be intimidated in male-dominated environments.

“There is dignity in labour everywhere in the world, and women must continue to pursue excellence in their respective fields,” he said.

The immediate past President of MWUN also called on women to continue upholding their rights and actively participating in leadership, governance, and peace-building initiatives within their communities and nations.

He further commended women who are excelling in different professions, urging them to remain role models and continue inspiring future generations through hard work, dedication, and integrity.

Both labour leaders expressed appreciation to women for their unwavering contributions to humanity and prayed that their efforts in building stronger societies would continue to yield lasting rewards.