The Director General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola have said that NIMASA is committed to supporting with the tools, resources, and training necessary to enhance efficiency. By working smarter.
Speaking at the 2024 Dock Workers Day Celebration with the theme; safety first and efficiency always, Dr. Dayo Mobereola said that Dock Labour Employers are urged to ensure that dockworkers are adequately compensated in the event of accidents or fatalities, in accordance with the Employee Compensation Act.
“At NIMASA, we believe that safety is not just a priority but a fundamental right. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that every dockworker returns home safely at the end of each day. The hazards and challenges you face on the docks are immense, and it is imperative that we continuously strive to create a safer working environment for all.
We have implemented rigorous safety protocols and continue to invest in training and technology to mitigate risks. However, the essence of safety lies in a culture where every individual is vigilant and proactive. Let us remember that safety is not a one-time effort but a constant commitment. By fostering a culture of safety, we protect not only ourselves but also our colleagues and our community.
Efficiency is the engine that drives productivity and growth. In an industry where time is of the essence, your ability to perform tasks swiftly and accurately is paramount. “Efficiency Always” means adopting innovative practices, leveraging technology, and constantly seeking ways to improve our processes.
NIMASA is committed to supporting you with the tools, resources, and training necessary to enhance efficiency. By working smarter, we not only boost our productivity but also ensure the sustainability and competitiveness of our maritime industry on the global stage.
I want to assure you that under my leadership, the Agency will endeavour to create an environment that enables Maritime Labour to function according to international best practices. As the competent authority for implementing ILO conventions and regulations, the Agency will also engage in maritime-related affairs through consultation with all relevant stakeholders, aimed at promoting a decent work agenda and advancing the industry.
I must also emphasize the need for stakeholders to strictly adhere to high safety standards in their operations to reduce the occurrence of industrial accidents at our ports, jetties, and terminals. Likewise, Dock Labour Employers are urged to ensure that dockworkers are adequately compensated in the event of accidents or fatalities, in accordance with the Employee Compensation Act.
As regulators of the maritime industry in Nigeria, we must ensure that dockworkers are sufficiently remunerated by operators and Dock Labour Employers as this will significantly enhance productivity at our ports, jetties, and terminals. In this vein, it gives me great joy to announce the launching of the reviewed Minimum Standards for the Dock Labour Industry Booklets.
Furthermore, this occasion presents me an opportunity to express the need for the operators in the private Jetties and Oil and Gas Terminals to grant operational access to the Stevedoring Contractors appointed by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, to enable them carry out stevedoring activities in the assigned operational areas. This has become necessary given the continuous complaints by these Stevedores in this regard.” He said
