Economic activities at the critical Lagos Ports have been brought to a standstill as maritime workers across the country embarked on a nationwide strike. The strike, spearheaded by the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), has halted cargo handling and ship operations, effectively paralyzing the movement of goods and services through the port.
The MWUN’s decision to strike stems from a long-standing dispute with the Federal Government over several unresolved issues, including unpaid allowances, poor working conditions, and the failure to implement the agreed-upon National Joint Maritime Industrial Council (NJMIC) Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
The strike has had a ripple effect throughout the Nigerian economy, causing supply chain disruptions and significant financial losses. Importers and exporters are facing delays in receiving and shipping goods, while businesses that rely on port operations are struggling to maintain their operations.
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has acknowledged the severity of the situation and has appealed to the MWUN to reconsider its strike action. However, the union has remained firm in its stance, urging the government to address its grievances promptly to bring an end to the disruption.
The ongoing strike highlights the critical role that maritime workers play in Nigeria’s economy and underscores the importance of addressing labor grievances to ensure the smooth functioning of essential industries.