Stakeholders’ demand better welfare for Seafarers
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime sector have called for stronger protection, improved welfare and sustained investment in seafarers, recognising their indispensable role in global trade and economic growth nationwide.
The call was made at the 2026 Day of the Seafarer celebration organised by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, in Lagos on Saturday.
NIMASA’s Deputy Director, Head of Public Relations, Mr. Edward Osagie, said the event, themed “Carrying World Trade, Carrying the Risk,” convened lawmakers, officials, security agencies, labour unions and industry stakeholders.
Senate Committee Chairman on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Sanni Eshinlokun, described the theme as fitting, reaffirming commitment to legislation promoting maritime safety, seafarers’ welfare, indigenous shipping and maritime education.
“Seafarers are indispensable to international trade and deserve policies that guarantee safety, welfare and advancement. The National Assembly will support initiatives that strengthen the sector and global competitiveness,” he said.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, represented by Director Makoji Musa, reaffirmed government’s commitment to decent work, skills development and positioning Nigeria’s workforce under the Blue Economy agenda.
“Seafarers remain the backbone of global trade. This administration will pursue policies that protect welfare, enhance skills and create opportunities in the international maritime labour market,” the Minister stated.
NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, said seafarers facilitate over 80 per cent of global trade yet face hazards, security threats and prolonged separation from families daily.
He reaffirmed commitment to the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 and the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme, which has trained 2,459 cadets, and noted wage increases of over 150 per cent.
“NIMASA will place seafarers’ welfare and development at the centre of regulation because a resilient industry requires a motivated, well-trained and adequately protected workforce,” Mobereola said.
Rear Admiral Abdullahi Mustapha, representing the Chief of Naval Staff, commended seafarers’ contributions and pledged Navy collaboration with NIMASA to safeguard the maritime domain and ensure safe operations.
Maritime Workers Union President-General, Comrade Francis Bunu, lauded NIMASA’s interventions, saying they enhance capacity and global relevance of Nigeria’s maritime workforce through improved conditions and training.
Stakeholders pledged continued support for NIMASA’s efforts on safety, human capacity and welfare as Nigeria advances its aspiration to become a leading maritime nation.
Nigerian Association of Master Mariners President, Capt. Tajudeen Alao, urged stakeholders to prioritise welfare, stressing seafarers carry world trade and risk amid hazards, isolation, piracy and adverse weather.
Alao called for investment in maritime education, sea-time opportunities, fleet development and fair remuneration, while honouring those lost, including MV River Gurara in 1989 and five Nigerians on MV Leo.
He urged governments, regulators and shipowners to place the human element at the centre of administration. Alao wished seafarers fair winds as the world marks June 25.