Seafarers’ Day 2026: Mobereola Praises Seafarers for Facilitating Global Trade, Bunu Calls for Revival of National Carrier
Seafarers’ Day 2026: Mobereola Praises Seafarers for Facilitating Global Trade, Bunu Calls for Revival of National Carrier
By Tunde Ojudun
Nigerian maritime stakeholders gathered in Lagos last Friday to celebrate the Day of the Seafarer 2026, themed “Carrying World Trade, Carrying the Risk.” The event, hosted by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), highlighted the resilience of seafarers and renewed calls for stronger protection, improved welfare, and sustained investment in maritime labour.
The event brought together lawmakers, government officials, regulators, security agencies, labour unions, and industry leaders to deliberate on improving the welfare and working conditions of seafarers.
Sen. Wasiu Eshinlokun, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, said the theme reflected the sacrifices of seafarers who sustain international commerce despite occupational challenges. He reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to legislation that enhances maritime safety, seafarers’ welfare, indigenous shipping, and maritime education.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola (represented by Mr. Makoji Musa), reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting decent work and expanding opportunities for Nigerians in the international maritime labour market.
Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola noted that seafarers facilitate more than 80% of global trade but face hazards, security threats, and prolonged family separation. He highlighted NIMASA’s enforcement of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, training of over 2,459 cadets under the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP), and adoption of international wage scales that boosted Nigerian seafarers’ pay by 150%.
Rear Admiral Abdullahi Mustapha, representing the Chief of Naval Staff, pledged continued collaboration between the Navy and NIMASA to ensure maritime security.
Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), praised NIMASA’s interventions but raised concerns about the Maritime Academy in Oron, whose graduates often lack internationally recognized certifications, leaving them disadvantaged in the job market. He lamented the absence of a national carrier, the collapse of the Nigeria National Shipping Line (NNSL) and urged government to revive it as a source of pride and opportunity for Nigerian seafarers.
Stakeholders unanimously pledged continued support for NIMASA’s initiatives on maritime safety, human capacity development, and seafarers’ welfare, aligning with Nigeria’s Blue Economy agenda.
Comrade Bunu concluded by emphasizing that seafarers must not be treated as collateral victims of international conflicts, commending their resilience and discipline, and expressing optimism that Nigeria’s maritime sector will reclaim its rightful place among leading nations.
