Shipping Correspondents Celebrate Nigerian Dockworkers

All is now set for celebration of the unsung heroes of the Nigerian port operations and by extension the entire economy as the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) hosts a maiden Dockworkers’ Day.

With the Nigerian economy predominantly import-dependent, and the ports as gateways to both regional and global trade, driving economic growth and fostering international cooperation with an estimated N33.2 trillion seaborne trade, the role of dockworkers, including crane operators, cannot be overemphasised.

The nation’s economy thrives on their skillful cargo handling. Yet, they have so far not been paid due recognition, unlike most other sectors of the economy, which are even yearly celebrated internationally.

In a statement jointly signed by the President of SCAN, Eugene Agha, and the Secretary, Tony Nwachukwu, the event has been scheduled to hold Thursday, September 7, 2023, at the Conference Hall of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Apapa, Lagos, by 10:00am.

The event is expected to x-ray the challenges faced by the port workers in their daily struggle to achieve a seamless economy through their seaports, while also looking into the future of their occupation in the light of ever-improving technology-driven economy.

Chairperson of the event is the Chairman, Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN) and Executive Vice – Chairman, ENL Consortium Limited, Princess (Dr.) Vicky Haastrup, while the Keynote Speaker is the Lead Consultant, Justicia Consults and immediate past Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Barr. Hassan Bello.

Special honours will be given to some distinguished personalities for their immense contributions to the welfare of dockworkers. These include: Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Hon. Emmanuel Jime; STOAN Chairman, Princess (Dr.) Vicky Haastrup, Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Muhammed Bello-Koko.