The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria on Wednesday appealed to the Federal Government to resolve its problem with Intels Nigeria Limited to save more workers from becoming unemployed.
The President of MWUN, Adewale Adeyanju, made the appeal while speaking with maritime correspondents in Lagos on the lingering problem between Intels and the government.
Adeyanju said the problem could also hinder investors from coming into the country if not resolved soonest.
The government on October 11 ordered the Nigerian Ports Authority to terminate its boats pilotage monitoring and supervision agreement with Intels because Intels flouted an order on the Treasury Single Account.
According to Adeyanju, the union as part of organised labour is concerned over the job security and welfare of its members in Intels.
He said: “Today, we are aware that Intels has over 5,000 direct employees and over 6,000 indirect employees, which makes it up to 11,000 workers.
“Most of these employees are Nigerians with families and responsibilities.
“We are worried that if this issue is not resolved amicably, their jobs can be on the line.”
Adeyanju said the socio-economic implication of most of the workers losing their jobs in a volatile area like Rivers State would have a negative impact.
He said the union was also worried over the negative message the contract cancellation would send to investors locally and internationally.
He said: “We want to advice the government to avoid anything that will send wrong signals to investors that Nigeria’s environment is not safe and conducive for business.”
Adeyanju appealed to the government through the NPA to resolve the issues soonest to ensure that calm was restored at the ports.
Follow The Eagle Online Channel on WhatsApp
