NPA workers raise alarm over deplorable PH, Calabar port access roads; commend management for staff welfare
NPA workers raise alarm over deplorable PH, Calabar port access roads; commend management for staff welfare
Segun Oladipupo
The Nigerian ports Authority (NPA) branch of Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), raised concerns over deplorable state of access roads to Port Harcourt and Calabar Ports saying it continues to hinder operations.
The union also decried the dwindling number of junior employees due to retirements, promotions and attrition.
The President of the branch, Comrade Bamidele Alex Ajayi raised the concerns in his welcome speech at the inaugural meeting of the Branch Working Committee (BWC) held on 13th March, 2026 in Warri, Delta State.
His words, “Decline in Junior Staff Numbers: We remain concerned about the dwindling number of junior employees due to retirements, promotions, and attrition. We call for immediate recruitment to fill these gaps. Additionally, the unchecked proliferation of private jetties without NPA oversight poses serious security and economic risks. We urge management to enforce stricter regulation.
“Infrastructure: The deplorable condition of access roads to Port Harcourt and Calabar Ports continues to hinder operations. We strongly appeal for urgent rehabilitation. Furthermore, we are requesting that management consider acquiring a new tugboat for Calabar and Port Harcourt Ports, and immediate repairs to MT Zaria at Calabar Port to enhance operational efficiency and revenue generation.
“In addition to these, we humbly appeal to management to consider the construction of a Security Gate House at the Delta Port entrance. This facility will serve as the base for the security department and control room, enabling efficient operations, enhanced surveillance, and swift response to incidents. Its establishment will significantly strengthen overall port security and safeguard both personnel and assets.”
Earlier, the union leader stated that to advance the mandate ot the branch, deliberate efforts have been initiated to unionize corporate organizations operating within its jurisdiction.
“Accordingly, all Districts have been directed to ensure that companies within their respective ports are fully integrated into our Union. This directive remains a foremost priority of the present administration.
“During our engagements with management, we identified critical challenges and presented them for action. While we commend management’s efforts, we must highlight pressing concerns:
“Productivity Bonus: On behalf of NPA workers We commend management for sustaining and upgrading the annual productivity bonus, which motivates workers and strengthens their commitment to excellence. We urge that this practice be maintained and enhanced as a cornerstone of employee morale.
“Staff Training & Development: We appreciate the training opportunities provided to staff. However, we appeal for more frequent, comprehensive, and inclusive programs to ensure all employees, across cadres, are adequately equipped to meet the evolving demands of the maritime sector.
The vibrant unionist also appreciated the efforts of the President General of MWUN, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi for visionary leadership spurs the branch to greater heights
He also appreciated the management of NPA for sustaining and upgrading the annual productivity bonus, which motivates workers and strengthens their commitment to excellence.
He urged that this practice be sustained and enhanced as a cornerstone of employee morale even as he appealed for more frequent, comprehensive, and inclusive programs to ensure all employees, across cadres, are adequately equipped to meet the evolving demands of the maritime sector.
Speaking further, he said, “A reliable fire and rescue service is fundamental to port safety. We recommend regular specialized training for staff and provision of modern firefighting equipment, including tankers, foam tenders, portable pumps, protective gear, and vehicles. These investments are critical to safeguarding lives, assets, and port operations.
“Providing staff buses across port formations, remains essential as reliable transportation supports punctuality, morale, and health, while reducing employers’ healthcare costs in the long run.
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“Operational Funding – Monthly Allocations: The delays in releasing monthly Ports allocations obstruct efficiency and hinder procurement of essential office supplies and services. We urge management to ensure timely and consistent disbursement of funds to all Port formations.
“Gratuity Payments: Retirees from 2017–2018 have expressed dissatisfaction with underpayments, while 2007 retirees remain concerned about inadequate increments. We appeal to management to revisit these cases, resolve outstanding grievances, and restore confidence among retired staff.
“Long Service Awards: Recognition of long-serving employees is a powerful motivator. We strongly recommend reinstating regular long service awards to deserving workers for loyalty, dedication, and commitment to the organization.
“Collective Bargaining Agreements (LTT & Depasa): We commend LTT Coastal Marine Services Ltd and Depasa Marine International Ltd for their commitment to workers’ welfare and wellbeing. However, we call for prompt commencement of negotiations on the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) ahead of the expiration of the current agreement which expire in June, 2026.
“Finally, we acknowledge management’s ongoing efforts regarding the salary review and remain hopeful that these initiatives will soon yield positive outcomes. We also trust that management will continue to intensify its commitment to achieving the best possible results within the shortest possible time.”
Comrade Ajayi commended the dedication and urged continued discipline, punctuality, and commitment of members. The values according to him, strengthen the union’s ability to defend members’ interests effectively.
