Nigeria is preparing to join other nations in celebrating the Day of the Seafarer 2024.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, alongside the Minister of State for Labour and Productivity, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha will lead other dignitaries to the commemoration set to take place in Lagos.
Also expected at the event are the director-general of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola and the head of ITF Seafarers’ Trust Fund, Katie Higginbottom.
Ahead of the event, director-general of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola encouraged Nigerians to participate in this year’s celebrations. He emphasised the use of #SafetyTipsAtSea on all social media platforms to ensure adequate exposure of Nigeria’s celebration of Seafarers Day in line with the theme of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
Mobereola stated, “Seafarers are the unsung heroes of our global economy and the lifeblood of international trade. They sacrifice a lot for humanity’s existence by leaving their families for months for our sake. Let us celebrate their resilience, dedication, and the invaluable role they play in our world. This day belongs to them. Let us use the hashtag #SafetyTipsAtSea for all our social media posts so that Nigerian seafarers feel appreciated.”
The 2024 commemoration aims to highlight the importance of seafarers as essential workers. The IMO has designated this date specifically for the celebration of these special occupations. This year’s theme also aligns with the Agency’s drive to protect Nigerian seafarers and create more opportunities for those willing to pursue a seafaring career.
