In recognition of the vital and unwavering contributions of seafarers to the nation’s economy, the Mission to Seafarers has held a special celebration in their honour.
The event took place on Sunday at the Church of the Resurrection, Victoria Island, Lagos, as part of this year’s Sea Sunday celebrations. The theme for 2025 is “Peace in the Storm.”
Chairman of the Mission to Seafarers and former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Chief Adebayo Sarumi, urged Nigerians to reflect on the indispensable role played by seafarers in daily life.
He emphasised that without the tireless efforts of seafarers, most goods and materials essential to both households and the economy would never reach their destinations.
“You probably don’t understand the seriousness of what we are doing today. Just look around you — if you’re not careful, the only things made in Nigeria might be you, your spouse, and your children. Everything else comes from abroad through the seafarers,” he said.
Sarumi noted that while many seek safety during times of conflict, seafarers continue to fulfil their duties, often at great personal risk.
He praised the Mission to Seafarers’ global humanitarian impact, which spans over 200 centres in 50 countries, saying they consistently strive to improve the welfare of those at sea.
“These centres are like oases in the vast desert of the sea,” he said. “They provide sanctuaries where seafarers can rest, connect with loved ones, or enjoy simple comforts such as a warm meal or internet access. In some cases, they offer shelter and temporary homes to distressed seafarers in need of care and family reconnection.”
Delivering the sermon, the Vicar of the Church, Venerable Tunde Oduwole, commended the sacrifices made by seafarers and urged them to continue with dedication, assuring them that they are both seen and appreciated.
Drawing from the Gospel account of Jesus calming the storm, he reminded the congregation that God is present, even in life’s darkest moments.
“Peace does not mean the absence of trouble. The storms will come, but because Jesus is with you, you will always overcome,” he said. “Faith calms the heart before it calms the sea.”
He reassured the seafarers that, though far from land, they are never far from God. “His Word travels faster than radio waves. His peace is available, even on the open sea,” he declared.
He also commended organisations such as the Mission to Seafarers for their steadfast support, noting that small acts of service — whether time, resources, or prayers — can have a far-reaching impact.
Also speaking was Engineer Emmanuel Ilori, an Assistant Chaplain of MTS Lagos and a former seafarer, who shared his personal story of returning home after six months at sea, only to have his baby not recognise him. He praised the courage and commitment of today’s seafarers and expressed his gratitude to those who attended the service.
A member of the MTS Lagos management team, Mrs Yetunde Akinluyi, highlighted the strong turnout for the 2025 Sea Sunday, with some seafarers even participating in the service remotely from aboard ship.
She also acknowledged the continued impact of the MTS Lagos Centre, especially since its transformation by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) in recent years.
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