The Federal Government has been called upon to accelerate the transition to greener ports while prioritizing the welfare of dockworkers. Prince Adewale Adeyanju, Vice President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), made this appeal during the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) Dockworkers' Day 2026 held in Lagos. He stressed that any discourse on green ports must place workers at the core of policy formulation and implementation.
Global Maritime Transformation
Adeyanju noted that the global maritime industry is undergoing significant changes, including the adoption of electric cargo handling equipment, automated systems, renewable energy solutions, digital logistics platforms, and environmentally friendly operational procedures. These innovations are reshaping port operations worldwide. However, he warned that while these advancements offer substantial environmental benefits, they also pose challenges for workers.
“The transition to greener ports must not become an excuse for job losses, poor working conditions, or the exclusion of workers from decision-making processes,” Adeyanju emphasized.
Opportunities and Investments
Adeyanju, who also serves as former President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), highlighted that Nigeria's pursuit of green ports presents numerous opportunities. However, achieving this requires substantial investments in modern infrastructure, cleaner equipment, renewable energy systems, waste management facilities, and environmentally responsible cargo-handling processes. He urged workers to adhere to safety standards, actively participate in sustainability programs, and upgrade their skills.
“The future belongs to ports that are smart, safe, and green, and ultimately the future belongs to ports that value their workers,” he stated.
Human Capital Development
In his remarks, SCAN President Moses Ebosele emphasized that investment in human capital development is critical to transforming Nigeria's seaports into globally competitive and environmentally sustainable hubs. He described the event's theme as timely, noting that the global maritime industry is increasingly adopting environmentally responsible practices aimed at reducing carbon emissions, promoting cleaner operations, conserving energy, and ensuring sustainable economic growth.
Ebosele described dockworkers as the backbone of port operations, facilitating cargo movement, supporting international trade, and contributing significantly to national economic development. He stressed that as Nigeria moves toward greener ports, workers must be equipped with the necessary skills, technology, and welfare support to adapt to emerging trends and evolving operational requirements.
Government Initiatives
Ebosele commended the Federal Government for announcing a $1 billion port development initiative aimed at revitalizing the Apapa and Tin Can Island seaports. He expressed optimism that the program would eventually be extended to other ports nationwide. However, he urged the government to give equal attention to workforce development, warning that infrastructure upgrades alone would not guarantee the desired transformation of the sector.
“The proposed modernization of our ports will not achieve its desired objectives without sustained investment in human capital development, continuous training, and improved welfare packages for workers,” he concluded.
