The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has urged workers in the nation’s shipping sector to increase their level of productivity and efficiency.
The minister disclosed this against the backdrop of the recent new minimum conditions of service for employers under the shipping industry.
According to the minister, workers’ efficiency would serve as a reward for the improved condition of service.
The minister, however, emphasised the crucial role the maritime industry will play in the nation’s GDP and in job creation.
He also acknowledged that the agreement will ensure conducive and decent working conditions, fair and living remuneration, job security and access to necessary welfare benefits for most workers in the shipping industry.
“The agreement is a reflection of the trajectory of this administration and a testament to our collective commitment to uphold the rights and welfare of workers in the industry,” the minister stated.
He further maintained that this agreement provides for a uniform standard that will guarantee level playing field among employers in the maritime sector thereby discouraging exploitation and promoting ethical practices in the industry.
The minister enjoined all the Labour unions to remain steadfast in advocating for the rights of workers by ensuring compliance with the agreed standards while government will on it’s part provide policy frameworks and regulatory roles that will guarantee conducive environment and ease of doing business.
Speaking earlier, the president of SACFEA, Boma Alabi SAN, expressed optimism that the new agreement would assist the nation’s Blue Economy growth.
In his remarks, the president general of MWUN Comrade Adewale Adeyanju hailed the epoch-making event as a historic accomplishment.
“As we celebrate this milestone,it is only a wake up call for us to continue to advocate for the rights and interests of maritime workers and employers for a peaceful industry harmony that will usher increased productivity”
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