Maritime union gives firm ultimatum over unpaid pensions (Melsmore Marine Ltd)

The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria has issued a 21-day ultimatum to Melsmore Nigeria Ltd. over unresolved issues relating to workers’ welfare.

MWUN President-General, Mr Francis Bunu, gave the ultimatum in a statement released by the union’s Head of Media, Mr John Kennedy Ikemefuna, on Wednesday in Lagos.

Bunu stated that the union demanded that Melsmore Marine Ltd. present its Collective Bargaining Agreement and details of the workers’ Pension Fund Administrators.

He noted that the company’s management had failed to provide these documents, breaching Industry Regulations and Labour Laws currently in effect.

According to Bunu, Melsmore Marine Nigeria Ltd. operates in the maritime sector and employs MWUN members, making it accountable to the union.

He stressed that the requested documents would ensure a stable, compliant working environment and help reduce the risk of regulatory disruptions in business operations.

Bunu expressed disappointment over Melsmore’s continued refusal to comply, despite repeated efforts by the union to resolve the matter amicably.

“The union demands submission of the latest CBA and pension remittance records of employees’ PFA to MWUN.

“Melsmore’s inaction suggests a lack of regard for MWUN’s constructive efforts toward sustaining industrial peace within the maritime sector.

“This conduct by the company may be perceived as deceitful and fraudulent, causing growing unrest and mistrust among affected employees,” Bunu said.

He said the union is alarmed that workers may be denied their rightful pension contributions, to which they are legally and morally entitled.

“MWUN has therefore given Melsmore 21 days to comply or face industrial action, including picketing its premises and other business locations across Nigeria,” he said.