The Federal Government has taken a significant step towards building a smarter and more efficient maritime sector with the launch of the Maritime Labour E-Platform.
The digital solution, unveiled on the 2025 Day of the Seafarer in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, aims to revolutionize the governance of maritime labour in Nigeria.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, described the platform as a transformative tool for labour administration, offering real-time data access, enhanced regulatory compliance, and a centralized system for maritime labour operations.
He commended the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for the initiative, saying it aligns with the Ministry’s vision of ease of doing business, global competitiveness, and human capital development in the blue economy.
The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to seafarers’ rights and safety, emphasizing that harassment and bullying have no place in the maritime industry.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to improve seafarer welfare, including quality training, capacity-building programs, and strict oversight of recruitment agencies.
The Collective Bargaining Agreement facilitated by NIMASA, unions, and industry stakeholders was also praised as a significant step toward better wages, working conditions, and dispute resolution.
Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NIMASA, reaffirmed the Agency’s support for Nigerian seafarers, emphasizing the need for a culture of zero tolerance for harassment and abuse across all vessels.
He noted that Nigeria remains Africa’s largest contributor of seafarers, thanks to initiatives like the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP).
The event featured goodwill messages from global maritime stakeholders, an award ceremony recognizing outstanding Nigerian seafarers, and a visit to seafarers’ onboard ships by the Honorable Minister and his delegation.
The celebration highlighted the importance of seafarers’ contributions to the maritime industry and the need for their welfare and safety to be prioritized.
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