RETIREMENT: Dockworkers Receive Cheques From Terminal Operator

By Roland Ekama

Port concessionaire , Five Star Logistics Limited on Wednesday, issued cheques to aged and sick dockworkers who have retired from active service in dock labour operational activities.

The dockworkers who are about 94 in number, were issued cheques to be able to continue their lives after service.

The retired dockers are members of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria MWUN, even as  terminal operator, disbursed over N122 million to the 94 retirees as part of its commitment to dockworkers’ welfare.

The four stevedoring companies are ; Ilutex Limited with 21 workers; Sahih Limited with 25 workers; Macbanadot with 26 workers; and Good Intention with 22 workers.

Speaking, Mr. Jaysing Kamthe, General Manager, Five Star Logistics Limited appreciated the aged dockworkers for their cooperation with the management while in service

He added that the company was happy to be able to pay them their severance packages , wishing them the best in their future endeavours.

Also speaking, Augustine Osuji, Human Resources Manager thanked God for sparing the lives of the retirees to be able to correct their severance package while they were still alive.

“Some of us started together but could not get to this level and it is something to thank God for. You worked, aged and used your hands to collect your entitlement.

“I want to thank you for the support from the company for all these years and we pray that God keeps you healthy

“Mine is just to thank you for working with us and for your cooperation and that you gave

“Whatever you received today, you will use it in good health,” he prayed..

Comrade Harrison Peter Umode, Zonal Coordinator, Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN) who spoke on behalf of the union, appreciated the management of the company saying the gesture was the first of its kind in the history of Five Star Logistics Limited.

“We are grateful because it is the first time such is happening in Five Star and we are happy that we are able to come to their agreement.

“We pray that the retirees will not use the money on sickness..’

Barrister Uche Odukwe, Deputy Director, Maritime Labour Services, Nigerian Maritime Administrator and Safety Agency (NIMASA) expressed joy over the payment

He commended the outgoing workers for their resilience and contributions to the growth of the organisation during their stay

He added that the cordial relationship between the firm and the labour union, gave the terminal the vista to get to its present height

‘It gives me so much joy that this is happening in the industry. I am happy because these are men that put in their best to make what give star is today.

“I am proud about the relationship between the labour and the company

“This is the kind of thing we want to see in future in terms of peace and tranquility,” he enthused.