The Federal Government will sanction any dock labour employer that neglects worker welfare, safety, and wellbeing, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, said on Thursday.
The Minister, who said this in a keynote address on Thursday in Lagos during the 2026 Dockworkers’ Day, put together by the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN), stated that protecting dock workers must be the priority for all terminal and stevedoring operators, not an afterthought.
He was represented by Ikechukwu Onyemekara, General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications Department of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)
According to him, employers must comply with all applicable labour regulations, provide safe working environments, ensure the use of appropriate safety equipment, support skills development and uphold the rights and dignity of every dockworker.
He insisted that the era when workers could be treated as expendable assets has no place in the maritime industry saying that sustainable port operations can only be achieved when workers are protected, respected and empowered.
He said that this year’s theme, “Green Ports: Sustainable Practices for Dockworkers,” was timely and relevant as the global maritime industry continues to embrace sustainability, environmental responsibility and climate-conscious operations
“The theme of this year’s celebration also reminds us that the future of maritime trade depends not only on economic efficiency but also on environmental sustainability. Around the world, ports are adopting greener technologies and cleaner operational practices to reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency and minimise environmental impact. Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind.”
He assured Ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote environmentally sustainable port operations, cleaner energy solutions, improved waste management systems and enhanced environmental awareness across the maritime value chain.
He maintained that achieving these objectives requires the active participation of all stakeholders, including terminal operators, shipping companies, regulators and, importantly, dockworkers themselves.
Dockworkers are key to greener ports, the Minister said, urging them to handle cargo safely, cut waste, follow environmental rules, and support clean energy initiatives.
He added: “As we continue to implement the Federal Government’s vision for the marine and blue economy, capacity building will remain a key priority. We shall continue to support programmes that equip maritime workers with the knowledge and skills required to adapt to emerging technologies, changing industry standards and evolving environmental requirements.
” I also wish to commend the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria for using this platform not only to celebrate dockworkers but also to stimulate important conversations around the future of the maritime industry. Such engagements contribute meaningfully to policy development, stakeholder collaboration and national economic growth.
“Let me assure all stakeholders that the Federal Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment that promotes decent work, sustainable port operations, investment growth and international competitiveness for Nigeria’s maritime sector.”
