…unions acknowledge role of relevant agencies in facilitating negotiations
The planned three-day industrial action that threatened to disrupt port activities in Apapa has been put on hold as the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) and two major transport unions—the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and the Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO)—have suspended their service withdrawal.
The unions had issued a strike notice on February 24, 2025, citing grievances over what they described as “exploitative activities” by the Lagos State Committee on Removal of Abandoned Vehicles and the Special Traffic Management Committee and Enforcement Team operating within the Apapa port corridor.
They had accused these agencies of subjecting truck drivers to “incessant harassment, bullying, and imposition of unregulated outrageous penalty charges” while transporting goods through the Apapa and Tin Can port access roads.
However, in a joint statement released yesterday, MWUN, NARTO, and AMATO confirmed that they had decided to suspend the planned strike following interventions by the Lagos State Government and key maritime stakeholders.
The statement, signed by the Secretaries-General of the three unions—Adoga Ogbogo (NARTO), Bala Muhammed (AMATO), and Oniha Erazue (MWUN)—commended the government for its swift response and invitation to an urgent meeting to address their concerns.
The unions also acknowledged the collaborative role played by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), the Nigeria Customs Service, and other regulatory bodies in facilitating discussions toward resolving the crisis.
“We note and appreciate the timely response of the Lagos State Government for quickly sending out meeting invites to us in respect of this burning issue. We also appreciate the Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy, Nigerian Ports Authority, Nigeria Shippers Council, Nigeria Customs Service and other authorities who have joined hands with us to immediately commence dialogue with the Lagos State Government with a view to procuring lasting solution to our plight,” the statement read.
They further informed their members, relevant authorities, and the general public that the planned industrial action would remain on hold pending the outcome of ongoing discussions with the state government.
In light of this development, they urged their members to maintain order, adhere to the law, and proceed with their daily activities as negotiations progress toward a resolution.
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