Nigeria Strengthens Push for Seafarers’ Recognition as Key Workers at ILO Session

(L-R: Regional Advisor and ILO Expert, Dr. Amos Kuje; Director, Maritime Safety and Security, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Babatunde Bombata; DG NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola; Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, NIMASA, Jibril Abba; Head of Protocol NIMASA, Nancy Olouha; and SA-DG NIMASA, Administration and Operations, Olatunji Ahmed at the 353rd ILO Governing Body session in Geneva.)

Nigeria has reinforced its advocacy for the formal designation of seafarers and other maritime professionals as key workers, emphasizing the need for enhanced legal protection and improved working conditions. The call was made by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, who was represented by Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), during the 353rd session of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Governing Body in Geneva.

Oyetola stressed the importance of formally recognizing seafarers as key workers to ensure fair treatment, legal protection, and priority access to welfare and medical services, especially during crises. He highlighted how these workers serve as the backbone of global trade and supply chain logistics, yet often face unfair employment conditions, mobility restrictions, and inadequate welfare provisions—challenges that became more evident during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The world’s economy depends on seafarers and maritime professionals who facilitate global trade. However, they continue to face numerous challenges, including unfair contracts and limited access to medical care. Nigeria is taking the lead in advocating for their formal designation as key workers, ensuring their rights and welfare are protected under international conventions,” Oyetola stated.

He emphasized the need for a harmonized framework between the ILO, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and the World Health Organization (WHO) to protect maritime workers’ rights and enforce international labour standards.

Nigeria’s Commitment to Strengthening Maritime Labour Rights

Oyetola outlined Nigeria’s efforts in improving maritime workforce conditions, citing initiatives such as the National Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP), which has expanded training and employment opportunities for Nigerian seafarers. He also reaffirmed the country’s dedication to port security, compliance with international safety standards, and the enforcement of fair labour practices to ensure dignified working conditions for maritime workers.

Additionally, Nigeria declared its intention to contest for a seat in the IMO Council’s Category C for the 2026-2027 biennium. This move, Oyetola explained, aims to strengthen Africa’s voice in shaping global maritime policies, particularly in areas such as:

• Stronger international labour rights for seafarers and port workers
• Enhanced technical cooperation and capacity-building for developing nations
• Improved regulations on sustainable maritime practices and security in international waters

“Nigeria is committed to playing a significant role in global maritime affairs. We will continue collaborating with international stakeholders to drive policies that protect seafarers, strengthen supply chains, and promote a fair and secure maritime industry,” Oyetola affirmed.

The session also reviewed key ILO labour policies, including discussions on decent work in global supply chains, budget planning for 2026-2027, and international frameworks on labour rights enforcement.

Call for Global Support

Nigeria urged the international community to support its vision at both the ILO and IMO, ensuring that Africa’s largest maritime workforce receives the recognition and protection it deserves.

“Together, we can build a maritime industry that is secure, sustainable, and just for all those who serve at sea and in ports worldwide,” Oyetola concluded.