The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting seafarers by enforcing maritime labour standards and regulations designed to safeguard their welfare, rights, and dignity, while ensuring compliance with national and international maritime obligations.
The commitment was reaffirmed on Thursday in Lagos by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, during the 2026 Day of the Seafarer celebration, themed “Carrying World Trade, Carrying the Risk.” The government said the initiative is aimed at ensuring the fair treatment of seafarers, enhancing safety across the maritime sector, and strengthening Nigeria’s compliance with global maritime standards.
Represented by the Executive Director of Marine Safety and Security in the ministry, Musa Makoji, Oyetola said the welfare of seafarers remains a top priority for the Federal Government.
“The ministry will continue to enforce applicable regulations and labour standards to ensure seafarers are treated fairly, while employers uphold their obligations under national and international maritime instruments,” he said.
The minister commended shipowners and employers that have maintained high standards of welfare, safety, and professionalism, urging them to intensify efforts to protect seafarers, who play a critical role in sustaining global trade.
He also called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, regulators, employers, and other stakeholders to promote compliance with international standards and best practices throughout the maritime industry.
According to Oyetola, seafarers remain at the heart of global commerce despite working under difficult and often hazardous conditions.
“While seafarers carry world trade, they should not carry the risk. Protecting them is a shared responsibility of governments, regulators, and industry players,” he said.
He noted that many seafarers spend extended periods away from their families while contending with operational, security, and environmental challenges that demand courage, discipline, and resilience.
The minister further observed that the maritime industry is facing mounting pressures arising from geopolitical tensions, shipping disruptions, emerging security threats, and climate-related challenges.
“Despite these realities, seafarers continue to demonstrate professionalism in ensuring the uninterrupted movement of world trade. We must reaffirm our commitment to protecting their dignity, welfare, and rights,” Oyetola added.
Earlier, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshilokun, described seafarers as indispensable to global trade and economic development.
Speaking at the event, Eshilokun said the Senate Committee remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote maritime safety, security, and the welfare of seafarers.
He said the committee would continue to advocate policies aimed at improving port efficiency, strengthening indigenous shipping capacity, and creating more employment opportunities for Nigerian maritime professionals.
According to him, the Senate will also support the modernisation of port infrastructure, the development of a sustainable blue economy, and the full implementation of conventions that safeguard the rights of seafarers.
In his welcome address, the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, said the annual Day of the Seafarer celebration recognises the invaluable contributions of seafarers to global trade and economic growth.
Dr. Mobereola said the 2026 theme highlights both the indispensable role seafarers play in global commerce and the risks they face in the course of their duties.
“Beyond transporting cargo, seafarers contend with unpredictable weather, demanding working conditions, evolving security threats, and geopolitical realities,” he said.
“They also endure prolonged separation from their families while coping with the physical and psychological demands of life at sea.”
