NLNG, MWUN sign new improved workers’ welfare package.

Segun Oladipupo

The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) and the shipping arm of Nigerian Liquified and Natural Gas (NLNG) Ship Management Limited (NSML) have reaffirmed strong commitment to better the lots of seafarers in line with improved welfare packages and manpower development programmes .

The two institutions made this known during the signing ceremony for ratings scheme as part of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) held in Lagos.

Human Resources Manager, NSML Comrade Henry Agbodjan told our correspondent shortly after the meeting , that the discussion was fruitful in furtherance to empower the seafarers, adding that management was determined to build capacity for the ratings.

The HRM noted that management has concluded plans for improving the standard of seafarers training.

He affirmed that “Today we had a really good interaction with executives of MWUN and NIMASA Representatives too.

“Today, we had discussions on improved welfare for our ratings and training for the ratings in order to add value on the shipping department of our organization.”

He also reiterated management commitment to continue the vaccination of seafarers onboard NLNG vessels , saying, those that are yet to get the Covid19 vaccination due to some reasons would be paramount against the backdrop of the just concluded interaction.

He noted that some of the training programme designed to hold was halted due to the Covid19 pandemic but reassured that the manpower development programme for ratings will commence once again.

However, he commended management of MWUN for their cordial and robust engagement with the NSML over the years , saying NSML will continue to provide the best way towards empowering employees

On his part ,President General MWUN, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju also expressed satisfaction on NSML commitment on members empowerment of the union aboard NLNG vessels adding that capacity building for ratings and seafarers was paramount for the sustainability of the shipping industry.

According to him, NSML is the best employers of labour in the shipping industry, noting that the union will continue to support the organization for training of seafarers.

Adeyanju stressed that: “NSML is one company that has the passion to train workers. They are the best employers of labour in terms of recruiting, empowerment , and training of seafarers.

“Our position is very clear because during the meeting we had with them earlier , we made them to understand that training of ratings is very key.

“NSML is one company that has the love of workers at heart. But we will always appeal to them to improve on capacity building for Seafarers”

Adeyanju also stressed the need for the ratings’ promotion as at when due, adding that training will lead to promotion of workers, even as he called on manning agents and shipping lines to emulate the standard set aside by management of NSML.

The meeting had in attendance Managing Director of NSML, Abdulkarim Hamed, Director and Head of Maritime Labour Services, Mr. Lawan Aliyu, Deputy President General MWUN, Comrade Francis Bunu, President Seamen NIWA Water Transport Branch MWUN,Comrade Sunday Avoseh, among many observers in attendance.