The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has unveiled the reviewed minimum wage document for Nigerian seafarers, aligning with the Maritime Labour Convention MLC 2006 guidelines.
Developed for the period of 2023-2025, the document is the result of a Collective Bargaining Agreement involving stakeholders such as employers in the maritime sector, the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), and NIMASA.
Speaking at the launch, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, underscored the significance of the revised document in improving the working conditions of seafarers. He highlighted its role in establishing fair and safe working conditions, ensuring decent living wages, and providing social protection for seafarers.
Dr. Mobereola emphasized the urgency of finalizing the Collective Bargaining Agreement among ship owners, trawler operators, merchant navy officers, and maritime workers unions to prevent payment delays and ensure timely compensation for employees.
He stated, “The revised standard provides a comprehensive framework outlining the terms and conditions of employment for maritime workers, reflecting the collective expertise and commitment to continuous improvement.”
Launching the document, Chairman of the National Seafarers Welfare Board, Alhaji Tijani Ramalan, stressed the importance of adhering to the provisions of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006. He emphasized that compliance would foster industrial harmony and guarantee better working conditions for Nigerian seafarers.
The event concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to collaborate in upholding the minimum standards and fostering a prosperous future for seafarers and the maritime industry.