Day Of The Seafarer 2026: Merchant Navy Union Asks Government To Turn Promises Into Action for Seafarers
By Roland Ekama
The President of the Nigeria Merchant Navy Officers and Water Transport Senior Staff Association (NMNOWTSSA) Comrade Bod Yousuo on Thursday, called for urgent policy reforms to improve welfare and working conditions for Nigerian seafarers
Yousuo who used the celebration of the Day of the Seafarer 2026 to appreciate the he specialized workers’ , called on government to prioritize seafarers’ well-being.
Speaking under the event theme, “Carrying the World Trade, Carrying the Risks,” the union leader praised seafarers’ resilience and professionalism, noting that seafarers transport about 90% of global trade yet continue to face
He said “poor wages, abandoned vessels, non‑recognition of Nigerian COCs, injustice and poor welfare.”
“We carry the risks so nations can eat, hospitals can run and industries can breathe,” the NMNOWTSSA President said, adding that seafarers deserve protections aligned with the ILO Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, including fair wages, decent food and medical care, adequate rest and respect.
“Policy demands and recommendations requires full enforcement of the NJIC agreement to reduce regulatory ambiguity affecting seafarers.
“Ratification of ILO Convention 188 (Work in Fishing) to extend protections to fishers.International recognition of Nigerian Certificates of Competency (COCs) through strengthened Ship Inspection and Detention (SID) procedures and multilateral agreements.
Increased investment in training for seafarers and union executives to boost competence and career progression.
“Direct funding of union welfare from Cabotage dividends, positioning the union as a formal partner in seafarer support.
Strict enforcement of the Cabotage Act without waivers and removal of Non‑Convention Vessel (NCV) limitations, Yousuo noted that.”Government support for the establishment of a national carrier to expand domestic capacity and employment.”
Appeal to regulators and industry
The NMNOWTSSA President urged the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), led by DG/CEO Dr. Dayo Mobereola, and the Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy to translate promises into concrete measures that protect seafarers from additional regulatory risks.
He called on shipowners and authorities to match the risks seafarers bear with commensurate rights and welfare.
Addressing stakeholders the NMNOWTSSA leader encouraged unity, urging seafarers to embrace the union as the primary vehicle for negotiating better terms and safeguarding their rights. He concluded with a message of pride and resolve: seafarers should continue to represent Nigeria honorably while refusing to “carry injustice alone.”
The Day of the Seafarer 2026 event drew senior government and industry officials, including the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport and the Minister of Marine & Blue Economy.