In a significant development within the Nigerian maritime labour sector, the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has elected Comrade Femi Abass as the new President of its Shipping Branch.
In a statement signed by Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna, Head of Media for MWUN, the election was held on Monday 16th June, 2025 at the Union’s National Secretariat.
Comrade Abass, who previously served as Vice President of the Shipping Branch, succeeds Comrade Ekpeyon Ekpeyon, who completed his constitutionally allowed two terms, a total of eight years in office.
Comrade Bunu, a respected maritime expert and seasoned sailor from Delta State, was credited for deploying his extensive experience in unionism to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral exercise.
Former President-General of MWUN, Comrade (Prince) Dr. Adewale Adeyanju, who also serves as Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Vice Chairman of the Global International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), also hailed Comrade Bunu’s leadership. Adeyanju noted that he had full confidence in Bunu’s ability to steer the Union when he handed over the reins, describing the successful conduct of the election as validation of that confidence.
Adeyanju, who hails from Oyo State, extended his gratitude to maritime stakeholders for their continued support of the Union’s leadership transition. He also encouraged Union members and staff to remain patient with the new PG and the newly elected branch executives, emphasizing that the benefits of Bunu’s leadership would become more evident with time.
In his message to the new Shipping Branch executives, Adeyanju advised them to embrace unity, peace, and mutual respect in their work. He highlighted the importance of loyalty and teamwork as the foundation for sustained progress and urged the team to focus on strengthening the branch’s operations for the benefit of all members.
Prince Adeyanju particularly commended Comrade Abass for his consistent display of discipline, commitment, and loyalty to the cause of organised labour.
