Maritime Workers’ Unity Key To Strengthening Institutions , National Development – Bunu

By Roland Ekama

At the 7th Global Leadership Summit & Awards held on December 6, 2025, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, President-General of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), emphasized the crucial role of labour unity in building strong institutions and driving Nigeria’s national development.

Addressing a distinguished audience at Presken Hotel and Resort in Ikeja, Lagos, Comrade Abi who was represented by Head of Media MWUN Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna highlighted how the maritime sector—responsible for over 80% of Nigeria’s international trade, relies heavily on the cohesion, professionalism, and welfare of its workforce.

He described labour unity as more than a trade union issue; it is a strategic imperative for the country’s economic stability and growth.

In his presentation titled “Building Institutional Strength Through Labour Unity: The Role of Maritime Workers in National Development,” Abi outlined how a united maritime workforce enhances organizational coherence, operational predictability, and institutional legitimacy.

He underscored that collective bargaining serves as a constructive mechanism to balance interests among workers, employers, and government, improving policy implementation and reducing industrial disputes.

Bunu also drew attention to the human dimension of maritime labor, advocating for prioritized welfare, continuous training, safety guarantees, and dignified work environments to boost morale and productivity.

He pointed out that maritime workers’ contribution stretches beyond ports—impacting trade volumes, revenue mobilization, national food security, and foreign investment decisions.

Any disruption in port operations, even for a day, has significant economic repercussions, making labour unity an economic necessity.

Facing emerging challenges such as automation, maritime insecurity, and policy inconsistencies, the PG called for sustained investment in capacity development, technological literacy, fair labor practices, and youth inclusion to ensure sustainable growth in the blue economy and global shipping competitiveness.Concluding,

Comrade Bunu reminded the summit participants that institutions grow when workers grow, and unity acts as the vital bridge between worker welfare and national progress.