Just In: Workers threaten to shut down ports nationwide over terminal operators’ delay in NJIC negotiation
Just In: Workers threaten to shut down ports nationwide over terminal operators' delay in NJIC negotiation
Segun Oladipupo
Industrial action looms as dockworkers branch of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN) is set to shut down ports nationwide owing to delays in commencement of negotiations on the National Joint Industrial Council (NJIC)
The Branch’s Executive Council (BEC) expressed disappointment over what it described as delay tactics by terminal operators, warning that workers could embark on industrial action next week unless urgent steps are taken to address their concerns.
Speaking in Lagos on Wednesday, the President of the Dockworkers Branch, Comrade Bolaji Agboola, said workers were increasingly angry and frustrated over the delay.
Agboola said the previous agreement expired at the end of May 2026, with new rates expected to take effect from June 1.
He warned that the branch leadership could no longer contain workers’ agitation over the failure to negotiate a new agreement.
He called on the Federal Government to intervene through the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and ensure that terminal operators commence negotiations before the close of work this week.
According to him, port operations may be disrupted next week if the matter remains unresolved.
Agboola said the branch leadership had continued to engage workers in a bid to manage the situation, but their frustration was growing.
He maintained that dockworkers should already be receiving revised rates following the expiration of the previous agreement and urged terminal operators to begin negotiations without further delay.
The branch president also accused operators of terminals and jetties covered by the NJIC agreement of delaying discussions on a review of workers’ rates.
