By Seun Ibiyemi
The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to employers of dock labour across the nation’s ports, declaring that it will no longer tolerate any organisation that fails to prioritise the welfare, safety and wellbeing of dockworkers.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, who was represented by NPA General Manager, corporate and strategic communications division, Ikechukwu Onyemekara gave the warning on Thursday at the 2026 Dockworkers Day celebration organised by the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) in Lagos.
Speaking at the event, themed “Green Ports: Sustainable Practices for Dockworkers,” Oyetola described dockworkers as the backbone of Nigeria’s port operations and critical contributors to the country’s trade and economic growth.
According to the minister, the welfare, dignity, safety and productivity of dockworkers remain a priority for the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy as it pursues the Federal Government’s vision for a thriving marine and blue economy.
“I wish to state unequivocally that the Federal Government will not tolerate any employer of dock labour who fails to place the welfare, safety and wellbeing of workers at the centre of their operations,” Oyetola said.
He stressed that employers must comply with all labour regulations, provide safe working environments, ensure the availability and use of appropriate safety equipment, support skills development and uphold the rights and dignity of every dockworker.
He noted that the era when workers were treated as expendable assets had no place in Nigeria’s maritime industry, adding that sustainable port operations could only be achieved when workers are protected, respected and empowered.
Oyetola also highlighted the importance of environmental sustainability in modern port operations, saying the global maritime industry is increasingly embracing greener technologies and cleaner operational practices to reduce emissions and minimise environmental impact.
He said Nigeria must not be left behind in the global transition towards sustainable maritime operations, noting that the ministry is committed to supporting initiatives that promote cleaner energy solutions, improved waste management systems and enhanced environmental awareness throughout the maritime value chain.
Oyetola called on terminal operators, shipping companies, regulators and dockworkers to work together in achieving sustainable and environmentally responsible port operations.
He explained that dockworkers, as frontline participants in port activities, have a crucial role to play through proper cargo handling, adherence to safety and environmental standards, reduction of operational waste and support for green initiatives.
Oyetola further assured stakeholders that capacity building would remain a key focus of government policy, with efforts aimed at equipping maritime workers with the skills and knowledge needed to adapt to emerging technologies, evolving industry standards and environmental requirements.
He commended SCAN for sustaining the annual Dockworkers Day celebration and for providing a platform to recognise the contributions of dockworkers while encouraging discussions on the future of the maritime industry.
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The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment that promotes decent work, sustainable port operations, investment growth and international competitiveness within Nigeria’s maritime sector.
He subsequently declared the 2026 SCAN Dockworkers Day celebration officially open and congratulated dockworkers for their invaluable contributions to national development.
