Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has initiated a review of 16 proposed amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006, aiming to improve the welfare of Nigerian seafarers. The move was announced during a three-day Tripartite Technical Session attended by key stakeholders from government, employers, unions, and international maritime partners.
Addressing the session, NIMASA’s Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, represented by the Agency’s Executive Director of Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, Mr. Jibril Abba, emphasized the significance of aligning Nigeria’s maritime regulatory framework with international best practices.
“Through this synergy, we can achieve progressive amendments that will enhance seafarers’ welfare, create a fair business environment, and elevate Nigeria’s position as a leading maritime nation. This tripartite session is not just about policy amendments; it is about fostering a collective commitment to the sustainability of the maritime sector and the protection of seafarers’ rights,” Abba stated.
The review covers a broad range of concerns, including the impact of new technologies, environmental considerations, and evolving industry demands, all with the shared goal of improving working conditions while fostering industry growth.
The Nigerian ILO Attaché (Labour Services), Mr. Essah Aniefiok, stressed the necessity of cooperation among all maritime stakeholders to achieve the desired reforms. Echoing this sentiment, Regional Advisor and ILO expert on MLC 2006, Dr. Amos Kuje, noted that Nigeria holds a pivotal role in Africa’s maritime sector and should continue leading efforts to improve seafarers’ welfare. He also emphasized that aligning local maritime labor practices with international standards could strengthen Nigeria’s bid for a Category C seat in the upcoming International Maritime Organisation (IMO) elections.
The MLC, 2006, serves as a fundamental international framework ensuring decent working conditions for seafarers while promoting fair competition within the maritime industry. However, with evolving global challenges such as automation, climate change, and economic shifts, NIMASA stressed the need to update the legislation to reflect these new realities.
The event saw participation from the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Nigerian Merchant Navy Officers and Water Transport Senior Staff Association, and other key stakeholders within the industry.