The looming threat of industrial action that severely impacted port activities in Apapa has been put on hold as the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) and two major transport unions, the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and the Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO), have announced the suspension of their planned three-day service withdrawal.

The unions had previously issued a strike notice on February 24, 2025, citing concerns over what they described as “exploitative activities” by the Lagos State Committee on Removal of Abandoned Vehicles and the Special Traffic Management Committee and Enforcement Team within the Apapa port corridor. 

In their grievance, the unions decried the alleged “incessant harassment, bullying, and imposition of unregulated outrageous penalty charges” on truck drivers who transport goods in and out of the Apapa and Tin Can ports access roads. 

However, in a joint statement released yesterday, MWUN, NARTO, and AMATO confirmed that they had decided to suspend the planned strike following the intervention of the Lagos State Government and other key players in the maritime sector. 

The announcement, which was jointly signed by the Secretaries-General of the three unions—Adoga Ogbogo (NARTO), Bala Muhammed (AMATO), and Oniha Erazue (MWUN), commended the state government for its swift engagement, noting the importance of the authorities’ “timely response” and the invitation to an urgent meeting to discuss their concerns. 

The unions also recognised the collaborative role played by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), the Nigeria Customs Service, and other regulatory bodies in facilitating discussions aimed at finding a resolution. 

“We note and appreciate the timely response of the Lagos State Government for quickly sending out meeting invites to us in respect of this burning issue. We also appreciate the Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy, Nigerian Ports Authority, Nigeria Shippers Council, Nigeria Customs Service and other authorities who have joined hands with us to immediately commence dialogue with the Lagos State Government with a view to procuring lasting solution to our plight,” the statement read. 

They further informed their members, relevant authorities, and the general public that the planned industrial action would remain on hold pending the outcome of ongoing discussions with the state government. 

In light of this development, they urged their members to maintain order, adhere to the law, and proceed with their daily activities as negotiations progress toward a resolution.