The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Western Port Police Command to enhance port security and ensure smooth operations within Nigeria’s maritime environment.
During a courtesy visit to the newly posted Commissioner of Police, CP Agbaminoja Iyabode Oluwatoyin (Mrs), the President General of MWUN, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, led a delegation of union executives to express solidarity and seek continued partnership in securing the nation’s seaports.
Comrade Bunu noted that the visit was in line with the union’s tradition of engaging new Police Commissioners upon their assumption of office, to foster synergy and mutual understanding between maritime stakeholders and law enforcement agencies.
He described MWUN as the largest and most strategic trade union in Nigeria’s maritime sector, stressing that its long-standing partnership with the Western Port Police Command remains crucial to safeguarding port operations.
“The issue of security in the port is very paramount. Our collaboration with the Police Command is key to ensuring a progressive and effective security network within the port and its environs,” Comrade Bunu stated.
He further emphasised that the union holds the Command in high esteem, adding that the leadership of CP Iyabode would benefit from the collective support and cooperation of all stakeholders.
“Our former President General, Comrade (Prince) Dr. Adewale Adeyanju, described CP Iyabode as ‘our own,’ and we stand by that. The MWUN is open to operational discussions and will continue to support the Command in achieving its security objectives,” Bunu assured.
The MWUN leader also introduced key branch presidents, including Comrade Agboola Bolaji of the Dockworkers Branch and Comrade Olufemi Oluyinka Abass of the Shipping Branch, who he said would be available for immediate liaison with the Police Command when necessary.
In her response, CP Iyabode welcomed the MWUN delegation warmly, describing their visit as timely and significant. She acknowledged the union’s pivotal role in the maritime sector and reaffirmed the Command’s readiness to deepen collaboration.
“The port is our shared constituency. Securing it is not the sole duty of the police; it requires collective efforts from all stakeholders, including the Maritime Workers Union,” she said.
The Commissioner pledged to strengthen communication channels between the Command and the union to promote trust, intelligence sharing, and effective coordination of security operations across port facilities.
“We must continue to talk to each other, treat people civilly, and ensure a safe, thriving port environment for all legitimate businesses,” CP Iyabode added.
The visit concluded with mutual assurances of continued cooperation, underscoring both parties’ resolve to maintain peace, safety, and productivity within Nigeria’s maritime sector.
