Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) have initiated discussions to address the unsettled terminal benefits of seafarers affected by the liquidation of the defunct Nigerian National Shipping Line (NNSL).
The Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh OFR, along with Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, Vice President of the Nigerian Labour Congress and President General of MWUN, jointly announced an agreement. This agreement aims to conduct physical verifications of affected seafarers or their next of kin, review the employment history of affected individuals, and determine the precise amount owed to each beneficiary.
Dr. Bashir Jamoh reiterated NIMASA’s commitment to resolving the issue, highlighting that the agency has proposed a settlement of 100 million naira, which was declined by the union. He emphasized the need for a conclusive physical verification exercise and assured that the ministry overseeing maritime affairs would be kept informed of progress.
In response, Comrade Adeyanju reaffirmed MWUN’s dedication to a peaceful resolution, ensuring the protection of workers’ rights without impeding productivity in the maritime sector. He commended NIMASA’s proactive stance under Dr. Jamoh’s leadership, urging other maritime bodies like the Nigerian Ports Authority and Nigerian Shippers Council to contribute to a more comprehensive resolution.
Osagie Edward, FNIPR, Assistant Director of Public Relations at NIMASA, emphasized the agency’s commitment to achieving industrial harmony and resolving this ongoing issue, expressing optimism about closing this chapter in the coming months.
