May Day: MWUN PG Bunu demands better pay for workers, tasks FG on insecurity

The President General of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu, has called for improved wages and welfare packages for Nigerian workers, describing their current condition as far below acceptable global standards.

Bunu made the remarks while addressing journalists during the May Day celebration held in Abuja on Friday.

According to him, the living condition of workers in Nigeria remains poor and does not reflect what workers deserve in a modern economy.

“The condition of workers generally in Nigeria is below expectation. It is nothing to write home about. It is below what workers can take home anywhere in the world,” he said.

He added that Nigerian workers are lagging behind their counterparts in the international community, stressing that the situation is nothing to celebrate.

Bunu urged labour leaders across the country to intensify efforts in negotiating improved salaries and welfare packages through Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA).

He noted that the recent increase in fuel prices would further worsen the hardship faced by workers, making it necessary for union leaders to take urgent action.

“This is not a better time for Nigerian workers. Labour leaders should stand up for workers and negotiate better salaries and packages,” he stated.

Speaking on insecurity, the MWUN President General called on the Federal Government to take decisive steps to restore safety across the country.

He said no country can achieve meaningful development if the well-being of its workforce is neglected, adding that improved remuneration and better working conditions would boost productivity and national growth.

“My message to the government is simple: let them go to work. No time is late. If they act now and things improve, Nigerians will praise them,” he said.

Bunu stressed that security remains the foundation for national growth, employment and development.

“Without a secure nation, there can be no better jobs and no meaningful development. Security should be on the front burner of government,” he added.

Bunu commended Nigerian workers for their resilience, dedication and invaluable contributions to national development despite prevailing economic and operational challenges.

On the prospects for maritime workers, Bunu expressed optimism that conditions in the sector would improve, saying labour leaders in the industry are determined to pursue better outcomes for their members.

“We have a big hope. We believe those in our sector are going to smile tomorrow,” he said.

He particularly appreciated maritime employers and stakeholders for their resilience and commitment to the growth of the sector.