In commemoration of the World Fisheries Day, seafarers’ under the auspices of the Nigeria Merchant Navy Officers and Water Transport Senior Staff Association (NMNOWTSSA) has harped on the need for the Federal Government through the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola to focus on prioritizing the fishing sub sector of the maritime Industry for economic gains.
November 21st has been set aside by International Labour Organisations (ILO) as the World Fisheries Day in order to celebrate the marine fishers all over the world.
It is a day set aside to appreciate the contributions towards the availability and production of aquatic foods to the world at large and evaluate their challenges as they carryout the haculean task of fishery.
The theme of this year’s Fish Day is: “Build Enabling Policy Environment for small scale Artisanal Fisheries.
In celebrating the Marine Fishers Day, National President, NMNOWTSSA, Chief Engr. Bob Joseph Yousuo pointed out seafarers’ have continued to contribute their own quota to nation building saying that exportation of the aquatic life’s has what it takes to give the country a favourable balance of trade.
The number one Seafarer called on the Minister of the Blue and marine Economy through NIMASA, Federal Department of Fishery FDF, NITOA and other stakeholders in the sub sector to ensure that the Marine Fishers are given their due respect and attention they truly deserve.
He stated that : “We should take cognizance of the crucial role of small scale marine fisheries in the sustainability of fisheries management. ”
According to a statement on Tuesday, Comrade Yousou noted that the artisanal fishers produce a higher percentage of fishes for for local , domestic and export consumption, calling on the minister to ameliorating the challenges facing this group of uncommon (seafarers’) professionals.
“As we celebrate sailors today, the uses this medium to congratulate all Nigerian Marine Fishers in particular and marine fishers globally.
*Also, we call on all authorities and stakeholders in the fishery sector to assist in We call for a “Decent Work and Decent Pay”, a good working policy, an enabling environment and safety for all Officers in the Fishing Sector.
“It’s also worthy to note that the Association is not relenting in assisting for better welfare and wellbeing of Nigerian Marine Fishers hence is seriously collaborating with both Ministry of Marine and blue economy, Agriculture and labour and employment for the speedy ratification process of ILO CONVENTION 188F.
“Its on this note, Chief Engineer Bob Joseph Yousou urge the employers of Nigeria marine fishers to consider them as assets and encourage the Marine Fishers to be professional in discharge of their daily duties.
“A big Congratulations to NIGERIAN Marine Fishers as Marine Fishers are celebrated world wide today.”
