The Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has stated that it will continue to enforce applicable regulations and labour standards to ensure that seafarers are treated fairly and that employers uphold their obligations under national and international maritime instruments.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, made this assertion recently in Lagos during the 2026 Day of Seafarers.
The event was themed, ‘Carrying World Trade, Carrying the Risk’.
Oyetola, who was represented at the event by the Executive Director of Marine Safety and Security at the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Musa Makoji, stressed that the welfare of the nation’s maritime workers is non-negotiable.
“The ministry will continue to enforce applicable regulations and labour standards to ensure that seafarers are treated fairly and that employers uphold their obligations under national and international maritime instruments. The welfare of our maritime workforce is non-negotiable. To shipowners and employers who continue to uphold the highest standards of welfare, safety and professionalism, I commend your efforts and urge you to do even more,” Oyetola said.
He called for sustained collaboration in promoting compliance with international standards and best practices, saying, “To our seafarers, I express my deepest gratitude. Though your work often takes place far away from the public domain, its impact is felt by every nation and every economy.”
Oyetola stressed that although seafarers drive global trade, they should not be made to bear its risks as well, arguing that protecting those who keep global commerce moving is a shared responsibility that requires the commitment of governments, industry leaders, international organisations and society as a whole.
“Today, we celebrate not only your work but also your sacrifice, resilience and commitment to humanity. We honour the vital role you play in connecting nations, supporting economies and improving lives across the world,” Oyetola stated.
According to him, through professionalism, resilience, dedication and sacrifice, seafarers have sustained the flow of international commerce and kept the global economy moving.
Oyetola maintained that the theme of the event is compelling, aptly reflecting the reality that while seafarers remain the backbone of global trade, “they are also among those most exposed to the risks and uncertainties associated with it.”
The former Osun State Governor noted that behind every successful voyage lies a story of commitment, endurance and sacrifice.
“Seafarers spend long periods away from their families, work under demanding conditions and navigate increasingly complex operational and security challenges. Their profession requires not only technical competence but also courage, discipline and exceptional resilience,” he stated.
He added that the maritime industry today faces unprecedented challenges, including geopolitical tensions, disruptions to global shipping routes, evolving security threats, climate-related pressures and growing operational demands.
“Despite these realities, seafarers continue to demonstrate professionalism in ensuring the uninterrupted movement of world trade. As we celebrate their contributions, we must also reaffirm our collective commitment to protecting their dignity and rights,” Oyetola added.
In his welcome address, the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Dr Dayo Mobereola, explained that the annual observance provides an important opportunity to recognise and appreciate “the invaluable contributions of seafarers whose unwavering commitment not only sustains economies but also strengthens the bonds that unite people across continents.”
Mobereola stressed that the theme underscores the indispensable role seafarers play in sustaining international trade, while drawing attention to the considerable risks and challenges they encounter in the discharge of their duties.
“Beyond transporting cargo, seafarers navigate unpredictable weather conditions, demanding working conditions, evolving security threats and increasing geopolitical realities. They endure prolonged separation from their families and loved ones, while also coping with the physical and psychological demands inherent in life at sea. Yet they continue to demonstrate exceptional resilience, professionalism and unwavering commitment,” Mobereola said.
He highlighted that at NIMASA, the welfare, safety, security and professional advancement of seafarers remain central to the maritime governance agenda.
Mobereola mentioned that the agency recognises that protecting and empowering seafarers is not merely a regulatory obligation but a moral imperative and a strategic necessity for sustaining the growth and resilience of the maritime industry.
“Governments, maritime administrations, shipowners, employers, training institutions, labour unions and industry stakeholders must continue to collaborate in building a maritime ecosystem that prioritises safety, dignity, inclusion, well-being and professional excellence,” he said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Wasiu Eshilokun, stated that seafarers operate under demanding conditions and often face significant risks, including adverse weather, security challenges, operational hazards and long periods away from their families.
“Yet they remain steadfast in their commitment to ensuring the uninterrupted movement of goods and services that society depends upon daily. The committee has focused on supporting initiatives that promote maritime safety and security, improve the welfare of seafarers, enhance port efficiency, strengthen indigenous shipping capacity and create employment opportunities for Nigerian maritime professionals,” he said.
He noted that in line with the Federal Government’s maritime development agenda, the committee will advocate for policies that support the modernisation of port infrastructure, “the development of a sustainable blue economy, increased participation of Nigerian seafarers in international shipping and the full implementation of international maritime conventions that protect the rights and welfare of seafarers.”
