The Federal Government of Nigeria has intensified its advocacy for the formal designation of seafarers as key workers, emphasizing the need for stronger legal protections and improved working conditions for maritime professionals. This push was reiterated at the ongoing 353rd session of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Governing Body in Geneva, where Nigeria’s delegation, led by the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, called for a harmonized global framework to safeguard maritime workers.
Representing the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, Mobereola highlighted the indispensable role of seafarers in global trade and supply chains, stressing that their contributions must be acknowledged and protected under international labour laws.
He noted that despite their critical role in ensuring the seamless movement of goods across international waters, maritime workers often face harsh employment conditions, restricted mobility, and inadequate welfare provisions—issues that were worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nigeria has been a strong voice within both the ILO and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in advocating for the formal recognition of seafarers as key workers. According to Oyetola, this recognition is crucial for ensuring legal protection for seafarers, port workers, pilots, and marine surveyors under ILO and IMO conventions, prioritizing access to medical care and mobility rights during crises, and enforcing fair labour conditions under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006).
He further stressed the need for collaboration between the ILO, IMO, and the World Health Organisation (WHO) to establish global standards that prevent labour exploitation and reinforce workers’ rights across the maritime sector. As Africa’s largest supplier of seafarers and port workers, Nigeria remains committed to securing equitable treatment for its maritime workforce, he said.
During the session, Nigeria also outlined its domestic efforts to enhance the welfare of maritime workers. Through the National Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP), the government has expanded training opportunities and employment pathways for Nigerian seafarers, improving their competitiveness in the global shipping industry. Additionally, the country has strengthened port security, enforced international safety standards, and enhanced labour rights protections to ensure dignified working conditions.
Nigeria also announced its intention to contest for a seat in Category C of the IMO Council for the 2026-2027 biennium. Oyetola stated that securing this position would enable Nigeria to push for stronger global regulations on maritime labour rights, advocate for increased technical cooperation for developing nations, and enhance Africa’s influence in shaping IMO policies on fair labour conditions, sustainable maritime practices, and international security.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to working with global stakeholders, Oyetola called on the international community to support Nigeria’s efforts at both the ILO and IMO. He emphasized the country’s vision of ensuring that Africa’s maritime workforce is recognized, protected, and empowered to contribute effectively to global trade and economic stability.
“Nigeria stands ready to collaborate with all partners to drive policies that prioritize the welfare, dignity, and protection of seafarers and port workers. Together, we can build a maritime industry that is secure, sustainable, and just for all those who serve at sea and in ports worldwide,” he said.