The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to Sea Transport Manning Services Ltd to sign a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for its workers.
The current CBA expired in 2023, and the union claims the company has been using delay tactics to avoid negotiations.
Key Issues:
Expired CBA*: The previous agreement has been expired for over two years, affecting workers’ salaries and career progression.
Union’s Efforts*: MWUN has made several attempts to engage with the company, but their efforts have been met with frustration and stonewalling.
Ultimatum*: The union is giving the company 21 days to call a meeting to resolve the CBA issue and sign a new agreement.
Implications:
The dispute highlights the challenges faced by workers in the maritime industry and the importance of collective bargaining agreements in protecting their rights.
If the issue is not resolved, it may lead to industrial action, affecting the company’s operations.
Quotes:
“We have been appealing to our members to remain calm and resilient in their daily activities at the workplace…
The Union has issued a 21-day ultimatum to Sea Transport Manning Services Ltd, expecting them to call for a meeting to resolve the protracted CBA issue,” according to Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna, Head of Media, MWUN.
Stakeholders Notified:
The union has informed relevant stakeholders, including
Federal Government of Nigeria
Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)
National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA
Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA
Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy
The development underscores the need for effective communication and negotiation between employers and employees in the maritime sector.
