NPA Will Sack 5,000 Dockworkers As Protest Looms

The National Association of Stevedoring Companies (NASC) on Thursday expressed its  displeasure against the decision by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to lay off 5,000 tally clerks and onboard security men. The President of the association, Mr Bolaji Sunmola, gave the indication in an interview with newsmen in Lagos.

Sunmola said the matter would be taken to the Federal Ministry of Transport for resolution, adding that the NPA was ready to throw thousands of workers into the labour market alongside their employers. NPA had indicated at a stakeholders’ meeting on Nov. 10 in Lagos that it would disengage tally clerks and onboard security men by Dec. 15.

In a letter dated Nov. 23, the NPA notified 10 stevedoring firms of its decision to disengage the tally clerks and onboard security men. The letter was signed by NPA’s Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Mr David Omonibeke. NPA explained that sequel to the stakeholders meeting on Nov. 10, management had resolved to discontinue with the services of tally clerks and onboard security men.