Blue Economy
MWUN Seeks NIMASA’s Support for Biometric ID Cards to Combat Illegal Port Workers
MWUN Seeks NIMASA’s Support for Biometric ID Cards to Combat Illegal Port Workers
Lagos- The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has approached the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to discuss the implementation of biometric identification cards for legitimate dockworkers and seafarers across Nigerian seaports.
During a meeting on Thursday, MWUN President-General Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, accompanied by national executives, visited NIMASA Director-General Dr. Dayo Mobereola to address concerns about unauthorized personnel operating in the maritime sector.
Comrade Bunu emphasized that the biometric registration system would help distinguish between legitimate union members and unauthorized individuals posing as dockworkers and seafarers.
“The biometric registration and identification of all bonafide union members employed by various maritime industry employers will definitely separate legitimately employed dockworkers and seafarers from illegal ones,” the union leader stated.
The Delta State-born maritime expert explained that proper documentation would enhance port security by reducing theft and pilfering of goods belonging to exporters, importers, and consignment owners, ultimately creating a better business environment at Nigerian ports.
During the meeting, Comrade Bunu also discussed the proposed Seafarers Recreation Center in Apapa, highlighting the collaboration between the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) and MWUN on the project.
He stressed the importance of providing quality recreational facilities for sailors when they come ashore, noting that the center would serve both union members and the general public while generating economic benefits for the union.
Responding to the union’s requests, Dr. Mobereola assured MWUN of NIMASA’s continued commitment to projects initiated under previous administrations, particularly the seafarers recreation center.
The NIMASA Director-General pledged that his administration would honor agreements made regarding the recreational facility project and thanked the union delegation for the productive visit.
Dr. Mobereola also congratulated Comrade Bunu on his recent election victory and expressed hopes for continued collaboration between the two maritime sector organizations.
The meeting underscores ongoing efforts to professionalize Nigeria’s maritime workforce and improve working conditions for legitimate industry players.