The Great Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) Seamen Branch has used the occasion of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary to call for greater unity, patriotism, and the inclusion of young leaders in the maritime sector.
In a goodwill message to members, the Seamen Branch emphasized the importance of solidarity, compassion, and collective responsibility in advancing Nigeria’s blue economy.
“As people striving for sanity in the seamen’s cradle, we are part of a legacy that values excellence, compassion, and competence. In these challenging times, it is essential to hold on to hope and work together towards a brighter future for our nation’s blue economy,” the union stated.
The Seamen Branch urged members to be “beacons of hope and positivity” and called on seafarers to support one another without self-interest, stressing that unity was key to achieving growth and success.
The union also used the anniversary to highlight the urgent need for leadership renewal within the maritime workforce. They expressed concern that aged retirees at the helm of certain seamen’s units were stifling opportunities for younger, vibrant professionals.
“We want young leaders in our district and unit. No man knows it all. If elders in Port Harcourt had not given space to a young man who has now become PG 001, we would not be celebrating a courageous leader today. Leadership must make room for new ideas and energy,” the message read.
The MWUN Seamen Branch further appealed to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to provide more training slots for grassroots members, insisting that systemic neglect has limited capacity development among younger seafarers.
With district elections in Lagos approaching, the union urged members to make their voices count and resist divisive practices.
“Forward ever, solidarity always, no going backward,” the Seamen Branch declared.
