SEAFARERS’ DAY: Merchant Navy Union Makes Case For issuance Of Class 1 / 2 Certificates Locally

The Nigeria Merchant Navy Officers and Water Transport Senior Staff Association (NMNO/WTSSA) has extended heartfelt felicitations to seafarers, ship owners, and maritime stakeholders nationwide as the world marks Seafarers’ Day 2025.

A key demand by the Seafarers’ union was for the Nigerian maritime authorities to expedite the issuance of Class 1 and 2 certificates locally, a move seen as critical to advancing Nigerian seafarers’ careers and stemming capital flight.

National President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) affiliate, Chief Engineer Bob Joseph Yousuo in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, reiterated that the years celebration highlights the challenges seafarers face, such as poor remuneration, inadequate rest hours, lack of Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), delayed wage payments, discrimination, and various forms of harassment including physical, verbal, social, cyber, racial, sexual, tribal, religious, and disability-based bullying.

His message stressed that a harassment-free ship is not a mere aspiration but a fundamental right.

 

In a goodwill message National President of NMNO/WTSSA stated that with the theme: “My Harassment-Free Ship”, underscores the urgent need to eradicate harassment and bullying at sea, pointing out urgent steps must be taken to protect seafarers.

Engr. Yousuo emphasized that seafarers are the backbone of global trade and called on all shipping companies to implement CBAs to guarantee decent work and fair pay, urgimg the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA to enforce regulations protecting seafarers from harassment and to ensure compliance with international standards.

The Mariner who spoke on behalf of his members, affirmed that: “Furthermore, a truly free ship would also imply compliance with international standards and best practices. In this regard, Nigeria’s inability to issue Class 1 and 2 certificates is a significant concern.

“This limitation not only hampers the development of Nigerian Seafarers, but also perpetuates a form of “national harassment” that undermines the principle of a free ship. We urge the Authority to expedite action on the issuance of Class 1 and 2 in Nigeria to avoid capital flight.

He pledged to continue advocating for seafarers’ welfare and called on all maritime stakeholders to unite in promoting a culture of respect and zero tolerance for harassment.

The President concluded by encouraging seafarers to remain focused on their professional goals and urged ship owners without CBAs to establish them promptly. The association also called for widespread social media engagement using the hashtag #MyHarassment-FreeShip to amplify the campaign.

“This year’s International Maritime Organization (IMO) theme, “My Harassment-Free Ship,” Call for Action to Protect Seafarers.”

The NMNO/WTSSA boss expressed solidarity with Nigerian seafarers, affirming, “We see you. We hear you. We feel your pains. We stand with you and we will not back down.” The message ended with a rallying call for unity and justice across all vessels and maritime workplaces.

“Let every ship hoist the flag of justice. Let every bridge, galley, and engine room ring with this message:

““MY HARASSMENT-FREE SHIP” is not a dream — it is a right. And with our union, that right will be defended.” He added .