The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare, protection, and global competitiveness of Nigerian seafarers, calling for collective action to eliminate harassment and bullying aboard ships.
Speaking at the 2025 Day of the Seafarer celebration held at J’s Signature Hotel, Port Harcourt, the Minister hailed seafarers as courageous professionals whose dedication sustains the nation’s maritime economy. The global theme for this year’s celebration, “My Harassment-Free Ship,” set the tone for renewed advocacy around seafarers’ rights, workplace safety, and industry reforms.
“Harassment and bullying have no place in our maritime industry,” Oyetola declared. “We must all ensure that every ship is a safe and respectful workplace.”
He noted that the Ministry, under his leadership, is advancing reforms to upgrade maritime education and training, in line with global standards and the revised Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention, which now includes anti-harassment training onboard ships.
Oyetola also highlighted several key interventions to improve seafarer welfare. He mentioned that tighter regulation of recruitment and placement agencies is being enforced to guarantee access to decent work. He also pointed out ongoing collaborations with shipowners to ensure fair treatment and onboard safety. According to the Minister, digital platforms are being built to connect Nigerian seafarers to global job opportunities and support networks. In addition, bilateral maritime agreements are being pursued to expand sea-time and participation in international shipping.
He referenced the newly signed Collective Bargaining Agreement, which sets a new standard for fair wages, dispute resolution, and decent work conditions. The agreement, facilitated by NIMASA in partnership with unions and shipowners, represents a significant step in the right direction.
“Through these efforts, we are working to build a maritime sector that values, protects, and empowers its workforce,” the Minister said.
He praised the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its continued enforcement of flag and port state controls, as well as its growing role in global shipping circles where Nigerian seafarers are increasingly gaining recognition.
Addressing seafarers directly, Oyetola said, “Today, we celebrate you, not just for your labour, but for your courage. We pledge to continue building a maritime sector that works for you.”
The event was attended by maritime stakeholders, union leaders, cadets, shipowners, and industry regulators, all of whom echoed the need for sustained action to improve conditions aboard vessels and boost Nigeria’s maritime profile globally.