Adegboyega Oyetola, Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, has highlighted the pivotal role of Seafarers in the maritime industry, which is crucial to the success of the nation’s Blue Economy.
The Minister, who speaking on the occasion of the commemoration of the 2024 Day of the Seafarer, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s committment to the development of the Nigerian maritime industry.
He said the vision of the Ministry of the Marine and Blue Economy is in consonance with the theme for this year’s celebration; “Navigating the Future, Safety First.”
The Minister who was represented by the Director, Maritime Safety and Security in the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Babatunde Bombata, highlighted many of the challenges Seafarers face in their profession l.
He stated, “Seafarers are the lifeblood of the maritime industry. They endure the isolation of the open sea, the unpredictability of weather, and the myriads of challenges that come with navigating some of the world’s busiest and most perilous waters.
“Their resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment ensure that goods and resources reach every corner of our planet, supporting livelihoods and promoting international trade”.
Oyetola pledged the Ministry’s resolve to prioritize the growth and development of the Marine and Blue Economy Sector, emphasising that Nigerians and future generations will benefit from the growth of the sector.
“We are working closely with stakeholders in the private sector, international organizations, and other government agencies to create an enabling environment for the growth of the Maritime and Blue Economy”, he stated.
He said the celebration of World Seafarers Day presents a unique opportunity for stakeholders to explore emerging issues and propose innovative solutions to the challenges facing the sector.
“We must remain resolute and deliberate in promoting the growth and development of the Marine and Blue Economy Sector, as the Ministry cannot achieve this alone”. He stated.
For his part, the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, acknowledged the uniqueness of the Seafarer profession and the challenges inherent.
He noted that the theme for this year’s celebration, “Navigating the Future: Safety First,” is a call to address the challenging conditions seafarers face while navigating the sea. He emphasized the need for greater focus on their well-being and safety at sea.
“We recognize the humongous challenges Seafarers face while sailing; ranging from piracy, kidnapping, encounter at war zones exposure to health risks and unfair treatment.
“Notwithstanding all these, Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents in the last two years; we will not rest on our oars as the life of every seafarer matters”, Mobereola stated.
He assured that the Agency will continue to collaborate with both local and international organizations to address global issues affecting seafarers and ensure their safety while navigating the future.
“Nigeria has the young population to compete with other countries whose seafarers contribute immensely to their Gross Domestic Product.
Hence, the Agency will continue to invest in training and capacity-building programs to enhance seafarers’ skills, welfare and employment opportunities”.
Dr. Mobereola used the opportunity to inform stakeholders that the Agency is working tirelessly to strengthen its legal frameworks by domesticating all Maritime Labour related ILO Conventions ratified by Nigeria.
The International Day of the Seafarer is celebrated annually on June 25 to recognize the contributions of seafarers to international seaborne trade and the world economy as a whole.
The day is organized by the International Maritime Organization and recognized by the United Nations.
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