Historic Maritime Union Shakeup: SSASCGOC , SSASCFA Set To Create Unstoppable Powerhouse

By Roland Ekama

In a groundbreaking move poised to shake the maritime industry to its core, the Senior Staff Association of Shipping, Clearing and Forwarding Agency (SSASCFA) and the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies (SSASCGOC) Maritime Branch have officially kicked off negotiations for a powerful merger.

The historic meeting at the SSASCGOC secretariat in Lagos on Wednesday 12 November 2025, marks the beginning of a new era that promises to unite two of the strongest senior staff maritime unions under Trade Union Congress (TUC) thus one banner and rock the sector with unprecedented strength.

SSASCFA President General, Comrade Ugochukwu Harrison Asonye, fired the opening salvo, revealing how sweeping industry changes demand an equally bold transformation in unionism.

Asonye reiterated that “The landscape has shifted drastically, warehouses and terminals have given way to terminal operators, and it’s time our unions did the same. Together, we’ll be unstoppable!”Turning heads further, Comrade Asonye declared that the proposed merger will unleash achievements far beyond what either union could accomplish alone.

SSASCGOC Maritime Branch President, Comrade Akin Bodunde, joined the chorus of excitement, boasting that the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria’s power came from a similar merger and now, it’s their turn to claim such dominance.

“Maritime workers must make noise to be heard,” he stressed. “This fusion is long overdue and it will unite us like never before and make our voices deafening to those in power.

“Both leaders pledged relentless commitment to this historic journey amid mounting industry challenges, including the devastating loss of 7,000 members after the 2006 concession debacle.

“Today marks the dawn of a new power bloc. When we stand united, nothing can stop us.This is only the beginning,” Comrade Bodunde affirmed.

As plans intensify for a follow-up meeting in January, all eyes are on this formidable alliance poised to redefine maritime unionism in Nigeria and the gains for workers could be nothing short of revolutionary.