Maritime Union Chief Slams Security Lapses Amidst Rising Vessel Attacks in Lagos Ports
Lagos, Nigeria – The president-general of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu, has voiced strong criticism against security agencies operating within Nigeria’s ports, citing a disturbing surge in attacks on vessels while they are berthed at Lagos ports. Bunu explicitly pointed fingers at the Nigerian Navy and the Marine Police unit of the Nigeria Police Force, accusing them of failing in their fundamental duty to ensure the safety and security of port waters and waterfronts.
The MWUN leader issued a stern warning that this escalating trend poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s reputation within the global maritime community. His remarks came during a meeting with members of the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) as they prepared for the upcoming 2026 Dockworkers’ Day celebration.
“Attacks on ships while they are berthed are simply unacceptable in a regulated port environment,” stated Comrade Bunu. He elaborated on the primary responsibility of the Marine Police, emphasizing their mandate to patrol and secure the waterfront, and therefore, to ensure the protection, safety, and security of vessels once they have docked.
“Why would a vessel berth, only for individuals to emerge from across the water in large numbers to attack it?” Bunu questioned, highlighting the apparent breakdown in security protocols. He expressed deep concern about the international perception of Nigeria, asking, “These vessels are foreign-owned; how do they want Nigeria to be viewed in the international community?”
Comrade Bunu lamented that such incidents are indicative of critical lapses in security coordination among the various agencies tasked with port security. He stressed the urgent need for these issues to be addressed, stating, “Somebody is certainly not doing their job. We cannot be experiencing these attacks, and nothing is being done to stop them by the responsible agencies.”
This condemnation follows a recent security incident at the Eko Support Terminal in Lagos. Unidentified assailants reportedly attacked a vessel that was already berthed at the facility. This event has reignited significant concerns among ship operators and port users regarding the safety of vessels operating within Nigerian ports.
Industry stakeholders are increasingly worried that persistent attacks on berths, which are expected to be among the most secure areas within a port, could deter international shipping lines. This, in turn, risks further exacerbating Nigeria’s already challenging maritime risk profile.
In response to the growing insecurity, Comrade Bunu called for a more robust security presence around port berths and along the waterfronts. He warned that the prevalence of insecurity in these controlled zones raises profound questions about the overall safety of Nigeria’s territorial waters.
Earlier in the meeting, the president of SCAN, Mr. Moses Ebosele, commended Comrade Bunu for his dedication to protecting the interests of maritime workers. Ebosele explained that the SCAN visit was part of their preparatory efforts for the 2026 Dockworkers’ Day event, which SCAN organizes annually.
Mr. Ebosele also appealed for the continued support of maritime workers to ensure the success of the upcoming celebration. He highlighted that this year’s event will place a significant emphasis on the importance of environmentally friendly practices and the adoption of modern technologies within Nigeria’s seaports. This focus reflects the industry’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.
The theme for the 2026 Dockworkers’ Day, “Green Ports: Sustainable Practices For Dockworkers,” is set to guide discussions among key stakeholders in the maritime sector. These discussions are expected to involve industry leaders, policymakers, and environmental advocates, all converging to explore pathways towards a more sustainable and secure maritime future for Nigeria.
The union’s strong stance underscores the critical need for enhanced security measures and inter-agency cooperation to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime assets and its international standing. The recurring nature of these attacks suggests a systemic issue that requires immediate and decisive action from all responsible parties. The safety of vessels and the efficiency of port operations are paramount for economic growth and international trade, and any compromise in these areas can have far-reaching negative consequences.
The union’s call for action is not merely about protecting property; it is about upholding the integrity of Nigeria’s port infrastructure and ensuring that the nation remains a reliable and secure partner in global maritime commerce. The international community is watching, and the ability of Nigerian security agencies to effectively manage and mitigate these threats will be a key determinant of future investment and trade relations.
The upcoming Dockworkers’ Day event provides a timely platform for dialogue and collaborative problem-solving. By bringing together various stakeholders, the union and SCAN aim to foster a shared understanding of the challenges and to forge a collective path forward. The emphasis on green ports and sustainable practices also signifies a forward-looking approach, recognizing that environmental responsibility and operational security are increasingly intertwined in the modern maritime landscape.
The union’s leadership has consistently advocated for improved working conditions and enhanced safety standards for dockworkers. Their current focus on port security reflects a broader commitment to ensuring a safe and efficient working environment for all individuals involved in the maritime industry. The ongoing dialogue with SCAN is a testament to the union’s proactive engagement with media and industry associations to raise awareness and drive positive change.
The concerns raised by Comrade Bunu are echoed by many within the industry who fear that the current security situation could deter foreign investment and negatively impact the flow of goods through Nigerian ports. A secure port environment is a fundamental prerequisite for attracting and retaining shipping business, and any perceived weakness in this area can have a cascading effect on the entire economy. Therefore, the demand for enhanced security is not just a union issue, but a national imperative.
