By Moses Ebosele,
ebosele@hotmail.com
The Group Executive Chairman of SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, CON, has called for deliberate investment in skills development, workers’ welfare and inclusive dialogue to ensure that the transition to green port operations does not come at the expense of dockworkers’ livelihoods.
Afolabi made the call in a goodwill message delivered on his behalf at the 2026 Dockworkers’ Day Summit organised by the Shipping Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria (SCAN) at Rockview Hotels, Apapa, Lagos.
Speaking on the theme, “Green Ports: Sustainable Practices for Dockworkers,” the SIFAX chairman said climate change and the increasing adoption of technology in port operations have made it imperative for stakeholders to balance environmental sustainability with workers’ welfare.
According to him, while technological advancements are helping to reduce operational hazards and improve efficiency, they have also raised concerns about job security among workers.
“The answer cannot be to resist progress, but neither can it be to pursue efficiency at the cost of the livelihoods of the workers who have built this industry. The path forward lies in deliberate investment in skills transition, workers’ welfare, mental health support and inclusive dialogue between employers and labour,” he said.
Represented by Olatunde Adewola
Deputy Manager,
Corporate Communications.
Afolabi described dockworkers as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, noting that their contributions remain critical to the smooth functioning of supply chains, cargo operations and overall port productivity.
“Every container that moves, every vessel that is turned around efficiently, every supply chain that holds and every industry that receives its raw materials on time is made possible by the strength, skill and sacrifice of the dockworker,” he stated.
He said SIFAX Group, as one of the largest employers of dock labour in the maritime sector, recognises the indispensable role of dockworkers and remains committed to their welfare, safety and professional development.
The business leader commended SCAN for providing a platform that promotes discussions on critical issues affecting the maritime industry and for drawing attention to the contributions of dockworkers.
He noted that the summit’s focus on green ports was timely, as the maritime industry increasingly faces pressure to adopt environmentally sustainable practices while maintaining productivity and competitiveness.
Afolabi stressed that sustainability is central to SIFAX Group’s operations, adding that the company has continued to invest in modern equipment, operational efficiency and workforce welfare in line with global environmental standards.
He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to working with regulatory agencies, labour unions and other stakeholders to improve working conditions and protect the dignity of dockworkers.
The SIFAX chairman also urged maritime journalists to sustain their advocacy and watchdog role in the industry, noting that informed reporting contributes significantly to policy development and accountability.
He expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria’s maritime industry, saying the sector has the potential to become one of the most dynamic on the African continent if stakeholders continue to invest in infrastructure, innovation and human capital.
Afolabi wished participants fruitful deliberations and expressed hope that the resolutions reached at the summit would translate into tangible improvements in dockworkers’ welfare and port operations across the country.
