Oyetola Backs Green Ports Agenda, Demands Improved Welfare for Dock Workers
Kathy Kyari
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has warned employers of dock labour against neglecting the welfare, safety and dignity of workers, insisting that the Federal Government will not tolerate practices that undermine the wellbeing of dockworkers.
Oyetola was speaking on Thursday at the 2026 Dockworkers Day celebration organised by the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) in Lagos, where stakeholders gathered to discuss sustainable port operations under the theme, "Green Ports: Sustainable Practices for Dockworkers."
The minister described dockworkers as the backbone of port operations, noting that their contributions remain critical to cargo movement, international trade and national economic growth.
"Without the commitment, resilience and professionalism of dockworkers, our ports cannot function effectively. Every container handled, every vessel serviced and every cargo delivered bears the imprint of their hard work and dedication," he said.
He stressed that employers must comply with labour regulations, provide safe working environments, ensure access to appropriate safety equipment, support skills development and uphold the rights and dignity of workers.
According to him, sustainable port operations can only be achieved when workers are protected, respected and empowered.
Oyetola also reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to promoting environmentally sustainable port operations through cleaner energy solutions, improved waste management systems and increased environmental awareness across the maritime value chain.
He said dockworkers have a crucial role to play in achieving greener ports through proper cargo handling, compliance with environmental standards, waste reduction and support for sustainability initiatives.
Formally declaring the 2026 SCAN Dockworkers Day celebration open, Oyetola assured stakeholders of the Federal Government's commitment to creating an enabling environment that promotes decent work, sustainable port operations, investment growth and international competitiveness.
Earlier in his welcome address, SCAN President, Moses Ebosele, said the theme of this year's celebration was timely as the global maritime industry increasingly embraces environmentally responsible practices aimed at reducing carbon emissions, promoting cleaner operations and conserving energy.
Ebosele noted that dockworkers remain central to port productivity and economic development, stressing the need to equip them with the training, technology and welfare support required to adapt to emerging changes in the maritime industry.
"As we advocate for greener ports, we must ensure that dockworkers are equipped with the necessary training, technology and welfare support required to thrive in an evolving maritime environment," he said.
He explained that the event was designed to provide a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, discuss emerging trends and explore practical solutions for transforming Nigerian ports into sustainable and globally competitive hubs.
Ebosele also commended the Federal Government for announcing a $1 billion port development initiative aimed at revitalising Apapa and Tin Can Island ports, while expressing hope that similar investments would be extended to other seaports across the country.
While applauding the initiative, he urged the government to prioritise human capital development alongside infrastructure upgrades.
"The proposed modernisation of our ports will not achieve its desired objectives without sustained investment in human capital development, continuous training and improved welfare packages for workers," he stated.
He further reaffirmed the commitment of maritime journalists to promoting informed discourse, highlighting industry challenges and supporting initiatives that advance sustainable development within the maritime sector.
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