The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has announced significant progress in the payment process for retired seafarers of the defunct Nigerian National Shipping Line (NNSL), with 85% of the process reportedly completed. This announcement comes as a beacon of hope for the aging seafarers, many of whom are facing dire financial and health challenges. Francis Bunu, the President-General of MWUN, addressed a gathering of these retirees in Apapa, Lagos, assuring them of the imminent disbursement of their long-awaited pensions. He emphasized the commitment of both the union and the Ministry of Finance to expedite the remaining steps and bring relief to these deserving individuals. Bunu’s statement aimed to quell anxieties and reassure the retirees of the government’s intention to fulfill its obligations. He indicated that a delegation comprising union officials and retired seafarers would engage with the Minister of Finance to finalize the disbursement process.
Despite the positive update from the MWUN leadership, the retired seafarers expressed their deep-seated frustration and disappointment over the prolonged delays in receiving their entitlements. While acknowledging the progress made, they emphasized the urgent need for swift action, highlighting the deteriorating health and financial conditions of many of their colleagues. Their appeal comes approximately a year after the completion of a screening and verification exercise conducted in Lagos in 2024 to ascertain the eligibility of the NNSL retirees. The prolonged wait has taken a toll on these individuals, many of whom are struggling to meet basic needs and afford necessary medical care. The retirees recounted the tragic loss of fellow seafarers who passed away without receiving the fruits of their labor, amplifying the urgency of the situation.
The retired seafarers recounted the hardships they have endured due to the delayed payment, painting a grim picture of their current circumstances. Many are battling serious health issues, exacerbated by their inability to afford proper medical treatment. The meeting revealed the devastating impact of the financial strain, with reports of over 22 seafarers succumbing to ill health in the past two weeks alone. Furthermore, some attendees at the meeting are facing debilitating conditions, including blindness due to a lack of funds for optical treatment. These stories underscore the dire consequences of the delayed payment and the desperate need for immediate intervention.
The pleas of the retired seafarers are directed not only at the MWUN leadership but also at the highest levels of government. They called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene directly and instruct the Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, to release the funds before the end of April. They stressed that the payment is long overdue and that further delays would only compound their suffering. The seafarers expressed their hope that President Tinubu, known for his commitment to the welfare of citizens, would prioritize their case and ensure that justice is served. Their appeal emphasizes the moral imperative of honoring the government’s commitment to these individuals who dedicated their lives to serving the nation’s maritime industry.
Amidst the frustration and anxiety, the retired seafarers expressed confidence in the newly appointed President-General of MWUN, Francis Bunu. They praised his extensive experience in seafaring and welfare matters, believing that his leadership will bring much-needed attention and resolution to their plight. They formally conveyed their vote of confidence in Bunu, urging him to champion their cause and advocate forcefully on their behalf. The retirees viewed Bunu as their primary advocate and expressed their hope that his intervention would prove decisive in securing their long-awaited pensions. They believe his understanding of their unique challenges and his commitment to their welfare will make a significant difference in their struggle.
The situation facing the retired seafarers of the defunct NNSL highlights the critical importance of timely pension payments and the devastating consequences of delays. These individuals, who dedicated their working lives to the maritime industry, are now facing hardship and uncertainty in their retirement years. Their pleas for immediate action underscore the urgent need for government intervention to address their plight and ensure they receive the financial security they deserve. The ongoing efforts of the MWUN, coupled with the direct appeals to President Tinubu and the Minister of Finance, represent a concerted effort to bring closure to this long-standing issue and provide much-needed relief to these aging seafarers. The hope remains that these efforts will culminate in the swift disbursement of their pensions, allowing them to live their remaining years with dignity and security.
