MWUN Rallies Behind Nigeria For Return To IMO Council
By Asuquo Nuwak
MWUN Rallies Behind Nigeria For Return To IMO Council
••• NIMASA has done well – says comrade Francis Bunu
The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has pledged its full support for Nigeria’s bid to return to Category ‘C’ of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, while commending the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its transformative role in maritime security and governance.
The President- General of Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN) Comrade Francis Bunu, who disclosed this recently in Lagos, also commended NIMASA’s significant achievements, particularly in combating piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.
He noted that the Agency’s efforts have significantly improved safety and stability on Nigerian waters.
Comrade Francis Bunus is quoted as saying: “We now have peace on our waters, and this achievement is commendable. It also enhances regional stability and boosts investor confidence. Bunu also cited NIMASA’s commitment to maritime safety as a key driver of Nigeria’s growing prominence in global maritime affairs”.
Comrade Bunu further pledged that MWUN would mobilize support through its international affiliates to advocate for Nigeria’s IMO Council bid, explaining that the country has both the expertise and leadership to make meaningful contributions on the global maritime stage.
He however said Nigeria is long overdue for a return to the IMO Council, adding that a vote for Nigeria is a vote for Africa.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry, describing it as a “bold and visionary step” that will unlock investment opportunities and create employment across the maritime sector.
Besides, he said the creation of the Ministry is a strategic move that aligns with global trends. He further stated that it will open new economic frontiers and support the youth through job creation and skills development within the blue economy space.
In reaffirming the union’s commitment to collaboration, the MWUN leader assured stakeholders of continued engagement aimed at fostering industrial harmony, particularly within the dock labour sub-sector.
Comrade Francis Bunus pointed out that under his leadership, MWUN will continue to work with all maritime stakeholders to ensure peace, progress, and sustained sectoral growth.
He said as the world looks ahead to the 2025 Day of the Seafarer, themed: “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,” he emphasized the importance of sustainable ocean governance and the critical role of seafarers in global trade.
Above all, he said MWUN remains steadfast in its advocacy for seafarers’ rights, decent work conditions, and responsible stewardship of our ocean resources.
At the end, he disclosed that Nigerian seafarers deserve the gratitude for their immense contributions to global commerce.
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