The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, has intensified its advocacy for the formal designation of seafarers as key workers.
This initiative aims to ensure legal protection and establish a harmonized framework involving the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and the World Health Organization (WHO) to support safe working conditions for seafarers and other maritime professionals.
Speaking at the 353rd session of the ILO governing body, held from March 10 to 20, 2025, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, emphasized the need to recognize the critical role of seafarers and maritime workers in sustaining global trade and maintaining continuous supply chains.
He stressed that the global economy is heavily dependent on seafarers and maritime professionals who operate vessels, manage port operations, and ensure the smooth movement of goods across international waters.
Despite their crucial contributions, these key workers often face labour rights challenges, including unfair employment conditions, restricted mobility, and limited access to adequate welfare provisions—issues that became more pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Oyetola, represented by the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dayo Mobereola, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to advocating for the recognition of seafarers as key workers.
He stated that this recognition is essential to guaranteeing legal protection for seafarers, port workers, pilots, and marine surveyors under both ILO and IMO conventions.
He further explained that it would also ensure that maritime workers receive priority access to medical care, vaccines, and mobility rights during public health emergencies while promoting fair and equitable treatment in labor contracts, in line with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006).
The Minister underscored the importance of creating a harmonized framework among the ILO, IMO, and WHO to uphold international labor standards and safeguard maritime workers from exploitation.
As Africa’s largest supplier of seafarers and port workers, Nigeria plays a pivotal role in global trade and supply chain resilience, which strengthens the country’s resolve to advocate for fair treatment for its maritime workforce.
During his address to the ILO governing body, Oyetola also highlighted the government’s efforts to advance the shipping industry and improve the welfare of maritime workers.
He noted that through the National Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP), Nigeria has broadened training opportunities and enhanced compliance with safety standards, thereby ensuring dignified and secure working conditions for its maritime workforce.
In a strategic move to increase Nigeria’s influence on the global maritime stage, Oyetola disclosed the country’s intention to contest for a seat in the IMO Council’s Category C for the 2026–2027 biennium.
He said that occupying this position would enable Nigeria to advocate for stronger global regulations that protect maritime labor rights, push for enhanced technical cooperation, and foster capacity-building initiatives for developing nations.
He added that it would also strengthen Africa’s voice in shaping IMO policies that promote fair labor conditions, sustainable maritime practices, and enhanced security in international waters.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to international cooperation, Oyetola pledged that the country would continue working closely with global stakeholders to shape policies that protect maritime workers while fortifying global supply chains.
He called on the international community to support Nigeria’s vision at both the ILO and IMO, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and empowering Africa’s largest maritime workforce for the benefit of global trade and economic stability.
He concluded by urging collective efforts to build a secure, sustainable, and just maritime industry for all those who serve at sea and in ports worldwide.
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