SSASCFA urges workers to unite, reclaim their civic space amidst challenges facing Nigerians.
SSASCFA urges workers to unite, reclaim their civic space amidst challenges facing Nigerians.
Segun Oladipupo
The President General of the Senior Staff Association of Shipping, Clearing and Forwarding Agencies (SSASCFA), Comrade Harrison Ugochukwu Asonye, has urged Nigerian workers to unite and reclaim their civic space amidst ongoing economic hardship.
Asonye made the plea in statement on Wednesday as part of commemoration of Workers Day celebration.
The President General commended workers in the shipping, marine, and blue economy sectors for their resilience and vital contributions to national development.
Asonye highlighted the challenges facing workers, including inflation, rising living costs, insecurity, and the impact of fuel subsidy removal, noting that these issues have weakened the purchasing power of the Naira and threatened workers’ ability to organize and advocate for their rights.
He emphasized that the civic space where workers can demand justice is a fundamental right, not a privilege.
He called on the government and employers to provide greater protection for workers’ rights, ensure a living wage, revive the economy, and include labor representatives in policy-making. Asonye reaffirmed SSASCFA’s commitment to lobbying for better welfare, fair wages, and decent working conditions, urging workers to remain united and outspoken.
The speech concluded with a call for solidarity, encouraging all Nigerian workers to continue their efforts for a more just and equitable society.
“It fills me with immense joy, deep respect, and a strong sense of solidarity to witness today, representing the leadership and all members of the Senior Staff Association of Shipping, Clearing and Forwarding Agencies (SSASCFA). We gather to congratulate and celebrate every Nigerian worker, especially those in the shipping / marine and blue economic sector on this significant occasion of International Workers’ Day 2025.
“We honour your hard work, resilience, and unwavering spirit, even as we face mounting economic challenges. You have kept the wheels of commerce turning, supported industries, and shown a level of resilience that brings hope to our great nation.
“This year’s theme, “Reclaiming the CiviC Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” resonates deeply and comes at a crucial moment. Across our nation, workers are grappling with the burdens of inflation, rising living costs, the impact of fuel subsidy removal, insecurity, and diminishing purchasing power of Naira, yet, amid these struggles, the voice of the average Nigerian worker is slowly being stifled.
” Let me be clear: our civic space; the arena where workers can organize, raise their voices, and demand justice is not a privilege; it iS a fundamental right. As workers, we must not let fear, oppression, or harsh economic realities push us into silence.
” Now is the time to unite, to amplify our voices, and to advocate for policies that uphold the dignity of labour.
“To our dedicated the shipping and maritime industry; terminal operators’ workers,logistics personnel, workers in shipping companies, shipping agencies, marine inspection workers and marine technicians, I commend you for your vital role in national development.
The President General added that “You are the essential link between local commerce and global trade. You endure long hours, challenging weather, and tough working conditions to keep the supply chain moving.
“Let me assure you that SSASCFA will always be your voice, your shield, and your advocate.
We’re committed to engaging, lobbying, and challenging whenever it’s necessary to secure better welfare, fair wages, decent working conditions, and respect for your rights.
“As we celebrate this year’s Workers’ Day, let’s remember that our strength lies in unity. Let’s stand against division, apathy, and fear. Together, across units, we can protect our future, amplify our voices, and create
a nation where workers are genuinely valued.”
