Stakeholders’ Canvass Improved Welfare for Seafarers

Stakeholders in Nigeria's maritime sector have called for stronger protection, improved welfare, and sustained investment in seafarers, recognizing their indispensable role in global trade and economic growth. The call was made at the 2026 Day of the Seafarer celebration organized by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in Lagos.

The event, themed "Carrying World Trade, Carrying the Risk," brought together National Assembly members, policymakers, government officials, security agencies, and labor unions. It provided a platform to discuss the invaluable contributions of seafarers and the necessity of enhanced welfare for them.

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Seafarers are indispensable to international trade and deserve policies that guarantee their safety, welfare and professional advancement. The National Assembly will continue to support legislative initiatives that strengthen the maritime sector and position Nigerian seafarers to compete effectively in the global shipping industry.

Senator Wasiu Sanni Eshinlokun, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, affirmed the committee's commitment to legislation promoting maritime safety, seafarers' welfare, indigenous shipping, and maritime education. He stated, "Seafarers are indispensable to international trade and deserve policies that guarantee their safety, welfare and professional advancement. The National Assembly will continue to support legislative initiatives that strengthen the maritime sector and position Nigerian seafarers to compete effectively in the global shipping industry."

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Seafarers remain the backbone of global trade, and this administration will continue to pursue policies that protect their welfare, enhance their skills and position them for greater opportunities in the international maritime labour market. Investment in our seafarers is an investment in Nigeria’s economic future.

Representing the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, Director Makoji Musa, reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to improving seafarer welfare and strengthening Nigeria's maritime workforce under the Blue Economy agenda. "Investment in our seafarers is an investment in Nigeria’s economic future," Musa stated.

NIMASA Director General Dr. Dayo Mobereola highlighted that despite facilitating over 80% of global trade, seafarers face occupational hazards, security threats, and prolonged separation from families. "NIMASA will continue to place the welfare and professional development of Nigerian seafarers at the centre of our regulatory responsibilities because a resilient maritime industry can only be built on a motivated, well-trained and adequately protected workforce," Dr. Mobereola said.

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NIMASA will continue to place the welfare and professional development of Nigerian seafarers at the centre of our regulatory responsibilities because a resilient maritime industry can only be built on a motivated, well-trained and adequately protected workforce.