Stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime sector have called for stronger protection, improved welfare and sustained investment in seafarers, recognising their indispensable role in global trade and economic growth.
The call was made at the 2026 Day of the Seafarer celebration organised by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA in Lagos.
Themed, “Carrying World Trade, Carrying the Risk,”the event brought together National Assembly members, policy makers, government officials, security agencies, labour unions and other industry stakeholders. It provided an opportunity for deliberation on the invaluable contributions of seafarers to global trade and the need to sustain enhanced welfare for them.
Delivering the National Assembly’s goodwill message, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Sanni Eshinlokun, described the theme as a fitting reflection of the sacrifices made by seafarers and reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to legislation that promotes maritime safety, seafarers’ welfare, indigenous shipping and maritime education.
“Seafarers are indispensable to international trade and deserve policies that guarantee their safety, welfare and professional advancement. The National Assembly will continue to support legislative initiatives that strengthen the maritime sector and position Nigerian seafarers to compete effectively in the global shipping industry,”he said.
