The Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN) wrapped up 2025 with a vibrant end-of-year celebration on Friday, December 19, featuring worker recognition, cash rewards, and a display of strong labour solidarity.

Under the leadership of President-General Comrade Francis Bunu, the event brought together workers, staff, and executives in what was described as the largest end-of-year gathering in MWUN’s history, highlighting internal cohesion amid ongoing maritime sector reforms.

As part of the celebration, the union presented cash awards to members for punctuality, dedication, and exemplary conduct. In the punctuality category, Deputy Secretary-General (Administration and Personnel) Comrade John Ekpo received ₦100,000.

Other awardees included:

• Best-dressed male: Comrade Kenneth Ibanga, Deputy Secretary-General (Protocol) and ITF representative – ₦100,000
• Best-dressed male: Comrade Mathew Adele, General Secretary, Dockworkers Branch – ₦100,000
• Best-dressed female: Comrade Akala Mistura, Accounts Department – ₦100,000
• Female awardees: Funke Apesin, Assistant Secretary-General (Administration) and Serifat Ogbede, PA to the President-General – ₦100,000 each
• Other punctuality recognitions: Chief Driver Comrade John Kessy, Assistant General Secretary of Dockworkers Branch Comrade Rotimi – ₦100,000 each
• Best MWUN security personnel: Comrade Taofeek Adeleke

In the entertainment segment, Vice President-General Comrade Martina Njoku won the best female dancer award, receiving ₦50,000, while other participants received consolation prizes.

A special highlight was the presentation of an award to President-General Comrade Bunu by the organisers of the “Face of Maritime” event, alongside the 2025 Queen of the platform, in recognition of his leadership in Nigeria’s maritime labour movement.

Addressing participants, Comrade Bunu praised their discipline and reaffirmed the values expected of union members, emphasizing that surpassing this year’s achievements would require hard work, dedication, punctuality, commitment, and loyalty. He also commended the “Face of Maritime” organisers and attending journalists.

The celebration featured local delicacies from across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, reflecting the union’s commitment to inclusiveness and national representation. MWUN officials noted that the event reinforced worker motivation and unity as the union prepares to engage more effectively with evolving port operations, industrial relations, and sector reforms in the coming years.