In a significant move to enhance the well-being of seafarers, the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) have secured a grant from the International Transport Workers’ Federation UK (ITF-UK) to establish a Seafarers Recreation Centre.
Head of ITF Seafarers Trust Fund, Katie Higginbottom, announced the approval of the grant during a meeting with the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, in Lagos. Higginbottom commended MWUN and NIMASA for their dedication to seafarers’ well-being and stated that the center would benefit not only Nigerian seafarers but also those in the West African region and beyond.
The grant approval process, enduring three years of rigorous assessment, signifies ITF-UK’s confidence in the credibility of MWUN and NIMASA. Higginbottom expressed faith in the leadership of Comrade Adeyanju and Dr. Jamoh, acknowledging their commitment to the project. She emphasized the importance of the visit to Nigeria for site inspection, marking the commencement of the project.
Honourable Minister Adegboyega Oyetola expressed gratitude to ITF for entrusting Nigeria with direct foreign fund investment, assuring judicious utilization of the grant. Recognizing the sacrifices of seafarers, he commended the decision to create a space for social interaction and pledged the Nigerian government’s commitment to monitoring the project closely.
Dr. Bashir Jamoh, the DG of NIMASA, reiterated the agency’s dedication to seafarers’ well-being and emphasized the positive impact the Seafarers Recreation Centre would have on mental health and social integration.
Comrade Adeyanju, President General of MWUN, highlighted the collaborative effort with NIMASA and the financial support sought from ITF to improve seafarers’ conditions. The completion of the Seafarers Recreational Center aims to provide a gathering point for local and regional seafarers, fostering a sense of camaraderie during port calls.
The project marks a significant step in addressing the needs of seafarers and reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to becoming a major maritime nation. The grant from ITF-UK reflects international recognition and support for the maritime industry’s development in Nigeria.