The Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) has called on the Federal Government and maritime industry stakeholders to prioritise capacity building and improved welfare for dockworkers as the nation pursues its port modernisation and sustainability agenda.
Speaking at the 2026 Dockworkers Day celebration organised by SCAN, the President of the association, Moses Ebosele, said investment in human capital development remains critical to the success of ongoing efforts to transform Nigeria’s seaports into globally competitive and environmentally sustainable hubs.
The event, themed “Green Ports: Sustainable Practices for Dockworkers,” brought together government officials, maritime stakeholders, members of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), industry operators, and journalists to celebrate the contributions of dockworkers to the nation’s maritime sector.
In his welcome address, Ebosele described the theme as timely, noting that the global maritime industry is increasingly embracing environmentally responsible practices aimed at reducing carbon emissions, promoting cleaner operations, conserving energy, and ensuring sustainable economic growth.
According to him, dockworkers remain the backbone of port operations, facilitating cargo movement, supporting international trade, and contributing significantly to national economic development.
He stressed that as Nigeria moves towards greener ports, workers must be equipped with the necessary skills, technology, and welfare support needed to adapt to emerging trends and evolving operational requirements.
“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.
Ebosele noted that the celebration provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, discuss industry challenges, and explore practical solutions for advancing sustainable port operations across the country.
He also commended the Federal Government for announcing a $1 billion port development initiative aimed at revitalising the Apapa and Tin Can Island seaports, while expressing optimism that the programme would eventually be extended to other ports nationwide.
While applauding the initiative, the SCAN president urged the government to give equal attention to workforce development, warning that infrastructure upgrades alone would not guarantee the desired transformation of the sector.
“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.
Ebosele further reaffirmed the commitment of maritime journalists to promoting informed discourse, highlighting industry challenges, and supporting policies and initiatives that advance sustainable development within Nigeria’s maritime industry.
He expressed appreciation to the event’s sponsors, partners, the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, and other stakeholders whose support contributed to the success of the celebration.
The SCAN president also welcomed participants to the event, urging stakeholders to renew their commitment to building cleaner, safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable ports for the benefit of future generations.
The 2026 Dockworkers Day celebration highlighted the growing importance of sustainability in port operations and underscored the need for collaboration among government, labour unions, operators, and industry professionals to achieve a greener maritime sector.
