Workers’ Day 2025: Oyetola Hails Maritime Workforce as Pillar of Economic Growth, Calls for Stronger Partnerships

In a powerful message of appreciation and reflection to mark the 2025 International Workers’ Day, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, has extended his warmest congratulations to all maritime workers across Nigeria.

The Minister’s remarks, contained in a statement issued in Abuja and signed by his Media and Communication Adviser, Mr. Bolaji Akinola, spotlight the resilience, dedication, and enduring commitment of maritime workers to the advancement and sustainability of Nigeria’s economy.

“Today, I join millions of Nigerians to salute the unwavering spirit and industriousness of our maritime workers. From seafarers and dockworkers to port administrators and regulators, your efforts are the bedrock of our nation’s gateway to trade and economic prosperity,” Oyetola stated.

Reflecting on the journey so far, the Minister underscored the pivotal role the maritime industry continues to play in driving national development. He described the sector as the cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic architecture, especially as the country advances President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He further emphasized the need for a united front among government institutions, labour unions, and private stakeholders, urging continued collaboration to build a workforce that is not only globally competitive but also well-motivated and prepared for the future.

“As we mark this important day, we must reaffirm our collective responsibility to support maritime workers through strategic investment, policy innovation, and sustained engagement. The future of Nigeria’s economic strength rests on how well we empower those who keep our ports, seas, and trade lines running,” the Minister noted.

Since the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the sector has witnessed renewed attention and strategic reforms geared toward optimizing its potential. Workers across the maritime value chain have remained central to these reforms, powering logistics, enhancing port efficiency, and facilitating trade and commerce.

International Workers’ Day presents an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices and achievements of these workers, especially amid global economic challenges and shifting trade dynamics. Their adaptability, professionalism, and unwavering service have made Nigeria’s maritime sector a key player in West Africa’s economic landscape.

Key Takeaways:

• Minister Oyetola recognized maritime workers as indispensable to Nigeria’s trade and economic prosperity.
• The maritime sector is affirmed as the cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic future under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
• Stronger partnerships are being encouraged among government, labour unions, and private sector players.
• The government remains committed to ensuring the workforce remains competitive, motivated, and future-ready.
• The message is both a tribute and a rallying cry for collaborative progress and sector-wide innovation.

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