The Department of Ocean Affairs and Sustainable Development has announced its commitment to implementing relevant rules and labor guidelines to guarantee fair treatment of sailors and ensure that employers meet their responsibilities as outlined in domestic and global shipping agreements.
The Minister for Maritime Affairs and Ocean Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, stated this lately in Lagos at the 2026 Seafarers' Day event.
The gathering had the theme, "Bearing Global Commerce, Bearing the Liability."
Oyetola, who was present at the gathering through the Executive Director of Marine Safety and Security within the Federal Ministry of Maritime and Blue Economy, Musa Makoji, emphasized that the well-being of the country's seafarers is not up for discussion.
"The department will keep implementing relevant rules and labor standards to make sure that sailors are treated justly and that employers meet their responsibilities as outlined in local and global maritime agreements. The well-being of our marine workers is not up for discussion. I praise the ship owners and employers who maintain the best levels of well-being, security, and expertise, and encourage them to strive further," Oyetola stated.
He urged continuous cooperation in advancing adherence to global standards and optimal methods, stating, "To our sailors, I extend my most sincere thanks. Although your duties frequently occur out of sight, their effects are experienced by all nations and economies."
Oyetola emphasized that even though sailors fuel worldwide trade, they shouldn’t have to face its dangers too, stating that safeguarding those who ensure global business continues is a collective duty needing support from governments, company executives, world bodies, and everyone in society.
"Today, we recognize not just your efforts but also your dedication, perseverance, and contribution to mankind. We acknowledge the essential part you have in uniting countries, aiding economies, and enhancing people's lives globally," said Oyetola.
He stated that, with their professionalism, perseverance, commitment, and sacrifices, sailors have maintained the movement of worldwide trade and ensured the continued operation of the global economy.
Oyetola stated that the topic of the gathering is powerful, accurately highlighting the fact that although sailors form the foundation of international commerce, "they are also some of the individuals who face the greatest dangers and unpredictability linked to this industry."
The ex-Governor of Osun State pointed out that each successful journey has a tale of dedication, perseverance, and giving up something for the sake of achievement.
"Mariners often remain separated from their loved ones for extended durations, perform their duties in challenging environments, and deal with ever more complicated operational and safety issues. This career demands not just technical skills, but also bravery, self-control, and remarkable endurance," he said.
He mentioned that the marine sector currently encounters extraordinary difficulties, such as political conflicts, interruptions in international trade routes, changing safety risks, environmental impacts, and increasing work requirements.
"Even with these challenges, sailors still show dedication in keeping global commerce moving smoothly. While recognizing their efforts, we should also renew our shared promise to safeguard their respect and entitlements," Oyetola said.
During his opening speech, the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, stated that the yearly event offers a significant chance to honor and value "the essential roles played by sailors whose steadfast dedication not only supports economies but also reinforces the connections that bring together individuals around the world."
Mobereola emphasized that the theme highlights the vital contribution of sailors to maintaining global commerce, while also bringing focus to the significant dangers and difficulties they face in carrying out their responsibilities.
"Seafarers not only move goods but also face changing weather patterns, tough work environments, rising safety risks, and growing political challenges. They experience long periods away from their family and friends, along with dealing with both bodily and mental stresses of living on water. Despite this, they keep showing remarkable strength, dedication, and steadfast loyalty," Mobereola stated.
He emphasized that within NIMASA, the well-being, safety, security, and career development of sailors continue to be key priorities in maritime management.
Mobereola stated that the organization acknowledges safeguarding and supporting sailors goes beyond being just a legal requirement; it is also an ethical responsibility and a key factor in ensuring the continued development and stability of the shipping sector.
He stated, 'Governments, naval authorities, vessel owners, employers, educational bodies, worker associations, and sector representatives should keep working together to create a marine environment focused on security, respect, diversity, health, and career success.'
Previously, Wasiu Eshilokun, the Chairperson of the Senate Committee for Maritime Transportation, mentioned that sailors work in tough environments and frequently encounter substantial dangers such as harsh weather, safety issues, operational threats, and extended time spent apart from their loved ones.
"Nevertheless, they continue to be dedicated to maintaining the smooth flow of goods and services that society relies on every day. The committee has concentrated on backing projects that boost maritime safety and security, elevate the well-being of sailors, increase port effectiveness, reinforce local shipping capabilities, and provide job prospects for Nigerian maritime workers," he stated.
He pointed out that in alignment with the federal government's maritime growth plan, the committee will push for measures that promote the upgrading of port facilities, "the establishment of a viable ocean-based economy, greater involvement of Nigerian sailors in global shipping, and complete adherence to international maritime agreements that safeguard the rights and well-being of mariners."
Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
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