In a major step towards digitizing Nigeria’s maritime sector, the Federal Government has launched the Maritime Labour E-Platform, aimed at transforming the governance of maritime labour operations across the country.
The platform was unveiled by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, during the 2025 Day of the Seafarer celebration held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Describing the digital solution as a “transformative tool for labour administration,” Oyetola said the platform would drive digital governance, improve service delivery, and foster innovation within the sector. He added that the system offers real-time access to data, enhances regulatory compliance, and centralizes maritime labour functions.
The minister praised the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for initiating the project, noting that it aligns with the Ministry’s broader agenda of enhancing ease of doing business, boosting global competitiveness, and developing human capital in the blue economy.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “My Harassment-Free Ship,” Oyetola reaffirmed the government’s commitment to seafarers’ welfare, safety, and rights. “Harassment and bullying have no place in our maritime industry,” he said. “We are prioritizing quality training, expanding capacity-building programmes, and aligning seafarer education with international standards.”
He also emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to the STCW Convention and its recent anti-harassment amendments, stating that these reforms will help keep Nigerian seafarers globally competitive.
Oyetola further announced improved oversight of recruitment and placement agencies, efforts to ensure access to decent work, and partnerships with shipowners to uphold fair treatment onboard vessels. He acknowledged the Collective Bargaining Agreement brokered by NIMASA, labour unions, and industry stakeholders as a positive step toward improved wages and working conditions.
In his remarks, NIMASA Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, said the agency is fully committed to supporting Nigerian seafarers in line with international best practices.
“This year’s theme is a call to action,” Mobereola said. “Seafarers must feel safe, valued, and protected while at sea. We must foster a culture of zero tolerance for harassment and abuse across all vessels.”
He highlighted Nigeria’s role as Africa’s largest contributor of seafarers, largely due to initiatives such as the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP), and pledged continued efforts to develop policies addressing harassment, ensure confidential reporting, and align with international safety standards.
The event also featured goodwill messages from global maritime stakeholders, an award ceremony recognizing outstanding Nigerian seafarers, and a visit by the Minister and his delegation to ships to engage with seafarers onboard.