Members of the Shipping Federation Unit of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) erupted in celebration on Wednesday following the successful election of Comrade Abayomi Uthman Matin as Chairman in a keenly watched poll seen by many as a turning point for the union.
The election, which produced Martin through a widely supported mandate, was greeted with optimism among members who expressed confidence in his capacity to reposition the unit and address long-standing challenges.
Speaking with Lagos Focus News shortly after the exercise, several members described the outcome as a “new dawn” for the Shipping Federation Unit, noting that the union had, for years, yearned for dynamic leadership capable of responding to the evolving demands of the maritime sector.
A veteran seafarer, Mr. Olias Jones, said the emergence of a younger and more energetic chairman was in line with the aspirations of members. He stressed the need for leadership that is proactive in securing job opportunities and advancing the welfare of seafarers.
“We have long desired a chairman who is active, accessible, and committed to the growth of the union. With this development, we are hopeful that younger professionals will also find opportunities to return to the industry their predecessors helped to build,” he said.
Another member, who simply identified himself as Ayoko from the Nigerian National Shipping Line (NNSL), described Matin as a competent and experienced seafarer, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver on his mandate.
In his acceptance remarks, Comrade Matin said the overwhelming support he received was a reflection of the trust members have in his vision for the union.
“I am not surprised by the outpouring of support because many members are aware of my passion and commitment to the growth of this unit. I assure you that I will not take this trust for granted,” he stated.
He pledged to restore the “lost glory” of the Shipping Federation Unit by prioritizing job creation, training opportunities, and improved welfare for members. According to him, the union once thrived as a hub of opportunities, where members were regularly informed of available jobs, trades, and training programmes, a culture he vowed to revive.
Matin also assured that his administration would pay special attention to retired and elderly seafarers, including facilitating access to gratuities and providing support to ease their welfare challenges.
“We will ensure that our elders are not forgotten. Their contributions to this industry must be honoured, and we are committed to supporting them in every way possible,” he added.
Echoing similar sentiments, another member, Ajakaire Kazeem, expressed confidence that the new leadership would return the unit to its former standards, while Comrade Alao noted that Matin’s emergence signaled a strong possibility of renewed growth and stability.
Meanwhile, the District 1 Vice Chairman, Comrade Onyisi Prince Monye, who was also re-elected for a second term, acknowledged shortcomings in the previous administration but expressed optimism for improved performance going forward.
“Like every administration, there were challenges and mistakes, but we have learned from them. With this new term, and with the cooperation of members and leadership across all levels, we are determined to move forward and prioritize job creation for our seafarers,” he said.
Monye attributed some of the past challenges to structural and operational lapses within the job placement process but assured that better coordination among units, districts, and branches would enhance efficiency.
He further urged members to embrace unity, non-violence, and mutual support, stressing the importance of solidarity within the maritime workforce.
“We must remain one family, just as we are at sea. There should be no room for division or discrimination. Together, we can rebuild the strength and pride of the Shipping Federation Unit,” he added.
The election of Comrade Matin is widely seen as a critical step toward revitalizing the union and restoring confidence among members in Nigeria’s maritime labour sector.
