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Nigeria woos ILO governing body for support to clinch elusive Category C seat at IMO 

Nigeria woos ILO govering

– pushes for better working conditions for Nigeria’s seafarers, maritime workers 
Funso OLOJO 
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has again taken the campaign for Nigeria’s bid to win election into the elusive Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in December to the International Labour Organizations (ILO) govering body in Geneva ,Switzerland.
Speaking at the 353rd session of the ILO governing body taking place between March 10th- 12th, 2025, Oyetola informed the august body of the intention of Nigeria to contest for the
biennium IMO election and solicited for its support.
Represented by Dr Dayo Mobereola, the Director – General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the Minister declared that election of Nigeria into IMO Category C will enhance and boost African interests in the global maritime industry.
“Nigeria has the intention to contest for a seat in the IMO Council’s Category C, which will give the country a chance to, “Advocate for stronger global regulations that protect maritime labour rights, push for enhanced technical cooperation and capacity-building for developing nations, and strengthen Africa’s voice in shaping IMO policies that promote fair labour conditions, sustainable maritime practices, and enhanced security in international waters” the Minister told the ILO leaders.
 “In light of Nigeria’s commitment to the policies and guidelines of the ILO, IMO, and WHO, Nigeria has decided to reinforce its dedication to these esteemed international agencies.
“The country intends to play a more significant role in ensuring that Nigeria and Africa are visible in the international community.
“For this reason, Nigeria will be contesting for a seat in Category C of the IMO Council in the 2026-2027 biennium” Oyetola informed.
Meanwhile, the  Federal Government of Nigeria through its Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), has continued its advocacy for the formal designation of seafarers as key workers.
 This, the government explained, would ensure legal protection, and a harmonised framework between the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), and the World Health Organisation (WHO) that supports safe working conditions for Seafarers and other Maritime professionals.

Speaking through  Dr Mobereola, the minister , at the ILO meeting, said the role of seafarers and workers in the maritime industry must be recognised, held in high esteem, and treated fairly, considering their critical contributions to global trade and non-stop supply chain maintenance.“We recognize that the world’s economy depends heavily on seafarers and maritime professionals who operate vessels, facilitate port operations, and ensure the seamless movement of goods across international waters.

” However, these key workers often face labour rights challenges, including unfair employment conditions, restricted mobility, and lack of access to adequate welfare provisions issues that were exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is in this regard that Nigeria has been at the forefront, both within ILO and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), advocating for the formal designation of seafarers as key workers.

” This recognition is essential to ensuring: Legal protection for seafarers, port workers, pilots, and marine surveyors under both ILO and IMO conventions; Guaranteed priority access to medical care, vaccines, and mobility rights during public health crises and emergencies; Fair and equitable treatment in labour contracts, ensuring compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006),” Oyetola said.

He emphasised the need for a harmonized framework between the ILO, IMO, and WHO that supports safe working conditions, prevents labour exploitation, and reinforces international labour standards across the maritime sector, noting that, as the largest supplier of seafarers and port workers in Africa, Nigeria plays a critical role in sustaining global trade and ensuring supply chain resilience, hence its concern and insistence on giving maritime workers a fair playing ground.

Oyetola told the session that the agenda which include deliberations on global labour policies and country-specific developments under the ILO’s supervisory procedures, the Programme and Budget for 2026-2027, decent work in supply chains, the Global Framework on Chemicals, and country-specific labour developments, resonates strongly with Nigeria’s priorities, particularly in the maritime and blue economy sector.

On the country’s efforts to boost the growth of its shipping industry and the welfare of maritime workers to global best standards, Oyetola said, “Nigeria has taken bold steps domestically to improve the welfare of its maritime workforce.

“Through our National Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP), we have expanded training opportunities and improved employment pathways for Nigerian seafarers, enhancing their competitiveness in the global shipping industry.
“We have also strengthened port security, compliance with international safety standards, and labour rights enforcement, ensuring that our maritime workers operate under dignified, fair, and secure conditions.
Oyetola further pledged Nigeria’s commitment to collaborate with global stakeholders to ensure a better future for shipping, global supply chains and strengthening global maritime labour policies.
 “Nigeria stands ready to work closely with all partners to drive policies that prioritize the welfare, dignity, and protection of seafarers and port workers.
” We urge the international community to support Nigeria’s vision at both the ILO and IMO, ensuring that Africa’s largest maritime workforce is recognized, protected, and empowered for the benefit of global trade and economic stability.

” Together, let us build a maritime industry that is not only secure and sustainable but also just and equitable for all those who serve at sea and in ports worldwide.”

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Customs

KLT Customs reaffirms commitment to stronger maritime stakeholder engagement

Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun

Gloria Odion, Maritime reporter
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‎The Acting Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to deepening engagement with stakeholders across the maritime industry in line with efforts to promote trade facilitation, transparency, and sustainable economic growth.
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‎Adigun gave the assurance through the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Administration, Comptroller T.A. Jonah, who represented him during a courtesy visit by the newly elected Executive Committee of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) to the Command in Lagos.
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‎The Acting CAC, who was unavoidably absent, underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and key industry stakeholders, particularly the maritime media, in advancing the Service’s mandate and supporting national economic development.
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‎He described the media as a critical partner in disseminating information on government policies, customs reforms, trade facilitation initiatives, revenue generation, and anti-smuggling operations.
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‎According to him, maritime journalists occupy a strategic position in shaping public understanding and perception of activities within the port and maritime sector, stressing the need for professionalism, accuracy, and balanced reportage in the discharge of their duties.
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‎Adigun further assured the MARAN delegation that the KLT Area Command would continue to operate an open-door policy while fostering cordial and productive relationships with stakeholders within the maritime community.
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‎Earlier in his remarks, the President of MARAN, Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde, stated that the visit formed part of the association’s ongoing stakeholder engagement initiative following the inauguration of its newly elected executive committee.
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‎Onigbinde explained that the purpose of the visit was to formally introduce the new leadership of the association to the Command and strengthen the longstanding relationship between MARAN and the Nigeria Customs Service.
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‎He commended the KLT Area Command for its contributions to trade facilitation, revenue generation, and enforcement activities, describing the Command as a vital component of Customs operations within Nigeria’s port system.
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‎The MARAN President also reaffirmed the association’s commitment to professional, objective, and development-driven journalism, noting that maritime reporters play a significant role in promoting informed discourse on issues affecting the industry.
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‎He further assured the Command of MARAN’s continued support for initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness within Nigeria’s maritime sector through responsible and factual reporting.

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Headlines

One infant, three adults die, several others sustain injuries in fatal train derailment along Warri- Itakpe route 

Funso OLOJO,  Editor 
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed the death of four passengers in a train derailment along the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) corridor near Agbor, Delta State on Monday, June 8th, 2026.
Several others suffered various degrees of injuries.
In a statement by the Ministry of Transportation  and signed by its Permanent Secretary, Engr. Funsho Adebiyi, the victims included two female adults, one male adult and one infant.
The accident involved four coaches which reportedly capsized while one coach derailed, resulting in the unfortunate loss of four lives.
The statement confirmed that a total of 442 passengers were booked on the train, while 40 crew members, security personnel, and third-party service providers were also on board, bringing the total number of persons on the train to 482.
The NRC had activated immediate rescue and evacuation operations with the support of the Delta State Government, NEMA, FRSC, the Police, Civil Defence, local authorities, security agencies, and other emergency responders, and were completed by 6:30 p.m on Monday .
The Injured passengers were evacuated to medical facilities in Agbor for treatment.
 Other notable individuals on board included the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, and former Delta State Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Patrick Ukah, among others.
As of the time of this release, 24 serious injuries have been recorded, while several other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries and are receiving medical attention.
One NRC staff member suffered a traumatic limb injury and is currently receiving treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.
“The Ministry and the NRC extend their deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for the quick recovery of all those injured.
“The Corporation also appreciates the swift intervention of the Delta State Government, emergency responders, security agencies, the NRC Mechanical Directorate, the Special Rescue and Emergency Team, medical personnel, and members of the public who assisted in the rescue efforts” the statement declared.
The ministry said full onboard manifest has been retrieved and will be made available upon request by the relevant authorities while efforts are ongoing to identify all the injured and deceased persons for proper documentation.
The Ministry in conjunction with the NRC have commenced a full investigation into the cause of the accident while efforts will continue to account for all passengers and provide the necessary support to those affected.
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Commentaries

Why Nigeria must prioritize competency development and standards to harness gains of  blue economy

Funso OLOJO,  Editor 
Nigeria is endowed with vast maritime resources which offer enormous opportunities for economic growth, employment generation, food security, and environmental sustainability.
With its fabled over 850 kilometers of coastline, extensive inland waterways, and strategic access to the Gulf of Guinea, the country is naturally blessed to emerge as a hub for maritime activities in Africa.
However , taking advantage of these huge massive maritime opportunities should be the priority of Nigerian government which must be intentional on developing competency level of its Maritime professionals and raise their
adherence to international standards.
The blue economy encompasses diverse sectors including shipping, fisheries, aquaculture, marine tourism, offshore energy, maritime logistics, shipbuilding, and marine environmental management.
 These sectors are highly knowledge-driven and require a workforce equipped with specialized skills and globally recognized certifications.
Without competent professionals, Nigeria risks losing economic opportunities to countries with better-trained maritime personnel and stronger institutional frameworks.
Competency development is essential for enhancing productivity, safety, and operational efficiency across the maritime sector.
Skilled seafarers, marine engineers, port operators, logistics professionals, and environmental experts are critical to ensuring that maritime activities meet international best practices.
 As global shipping and offshore industries become increasingly technology-driven, continuous training and capacity building are necessary to keep Nigerian professionals competitive in the international labour market.
Skilled maritime professionals such as seafarers, marine engineers and allied personnel in the sector could be sources of foreign exchange earnings for Nigeria as they could be exported to the international community.
Philippines and India are the world’s top exporters of skilled maritime personnel such as seafarers where they get the chunk of their foreign exchange.
If Nigeria could develop such capacity in skilled labourers in the sector and export their expertise, the country could harvest bountifully from such venture.
Equally important is the adoption and enforcement of internationally recognized standards.
Standards provide the framework for quality assurance, safety management, environmental protection, and operational excellence.
Compliance with global maritime standards established by organizations such as the International Maritime Organization(IMO) and the Nautical Institute enhances Nigeria’s credibility as a maritime nation and attracts foreign investment.
Investors and international partners are more likely to engage with institutions and businesses that demonstrate compliance with recognized benchmarks.
That is why the recent certification of the Maritime Centre of Excellence operated by NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited by the  UK Nautical Institute is germaine to Nigeria’s quest to develop training capacity and build compliance with standard procedures
This feat also underscores the importance of world-class training institutions in building local capacity.
That is why the  government should give necessary assistance to training institutions in Nigeria such as Maritime Academy of Nigeria(MAN),  Oron and the Maritime Centre of Excellence operated by NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited.
Such government patronage and assistance will not only improve the quality of maritime training in Nigeria but also position the country as a regional centre  for maritime education and professional development.
Prioritizing competency development and standards will also contribute significantly to maritime safety and environmental sustainability.
Well-trained personnel are better equipped to prevent accidents, manage maritime risks, and respond effectively to emergencies.
 Furthermore, adherence to environmental standards helps reduce marine pollution, protect biodiversity, and ensure the sustainable utilization of ocean resources, which are fundamental pillars of the blue economy.
From an economic perspective, a competent workforce and strong standards framework can increase Nigeria’s participation in global maritime trade, create high-value jobs, reduce dependence on foreign expertise, and improve the country’s competitiveness.
 It also supports local content development by enabling Nigerian professionals and companies to meet the requirements of international contracts and projects.
In conclusion, competency development and standards are not optional components of Nigeria’s blue economy strategy; they are foundational requirements for its success.
 By investing in human capital, strengthening training institutions, and enforcing internationally accepted standards, Nigeria can fully harness the immense potential of its maritime resources and transform the blue economy into a major driver of national development, economic diversification, and sustainable growth.
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