Shipping industry stakeholders have recently reached a significant agreement to establish minimum standards for workers’ conditions, culminating in the approval of a new minimum wage of N200,000.
The agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony held in Lagos on August 23, 2024, with key participation from the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
The new wage is notably three times the national minimum wage of N70,000, highlighting the commitment of the Shipping Agencies, Clearing, and Forwarding Employers Association (SACFEA) to improve the welfare of their employees.
Mrs. Boma Alabi (SAN), President of SACFEA, emphasized the historic nature of this agreement, stating, “In setting a minimum standard for the shipping industry, we have gone above and beyond any other industry in Nigeria.”
The agreement not only addresses wage increases but also sets forth standardized conditions of service, ensuring that maritime workers benefit from improved pay and working conditions.
The signing ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who explianed the importance of dignifying the maritime workforce. Oyetola urged all stakeholders to honor the agreement and continue advocating for workers’ rights.
The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), represented by President-General Adewale Adeyanju, welcomed the agreement as a crucial step towards eliminating unfair labor practices.
He assured that the minimum wage would be reviewed biennially to remain relevant to the economic landscape.
