By Winifred Ngozi Orji
Harboursandport.com: Lagos, Nigeria - The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has commenced a review of 16 proposals for amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, aimed at enhancing the welfare of Nigerian seafarers.
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| L-R: International Labour Organisation and Labour Attache, Essah Aniefiok; Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Jibril Abba; Secretary General, Nigerian Merchant Navy Officers and Water Transport Senior Staff Association, NMNOWTSSA, Comrade John A. Okpono and representative of the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, Captain Maku G. Yurkusi during a three-day Tripartite Technical Session to review 16 proposals for amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006 in Lagos. |
The review process, which involves key stakeholders from government, employers, unions, and international maritime partners, seeks to align Nigeria's maritime regulatory framework with international best practices, ensuring fairness, inclusivity, and sustainability.
Speaking at a tripartite technical session in Lagos, NIMASA's Director General Dr Dayi Mobereols whose speech was delivered by the Agency’s Executive Director , Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, Mr. Jibril Abba, emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to achieve progressive amendments that enhance seafarers' welfare and promote a fair business environment.
"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 said.
The proposed amendments focus on various issues, including the impact of new technologies, environmental considerations, and the evolving needs of seafarers with a shared goal of improving and fostering industry growth.
While recognizing the ongoing dedication, support, and expertise of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), along with the various union representatives and other stakeholders, he emphasized that their contributions are vital in shaping a future where the Nigerian maritime industry remains competitive, resilient, and fair for everyone. “We eagerly anticipate the results of this session and are confident that our joint discussions will further enhance Nigeria’s commitment to providing decent work for all seafarers,” he concluded.
Addressing the participants was the Nigerian ILO Attache (Labour Services), Mr. Essah Aniefiok, who stated that in order to achieve the tasks ahead, there is the need for cooperation among all the stakeholders in the sector.
According to Dr. Amos Kuje, Regional Advisor and ILO expert on MLC 2006, "Nigeria is a focal point in Africa, which the ILO recognizes... The practice must align with the theory."
Kuje emphasized the need for Nigeria to maintain its lead in the maritime industry, particularly as the country eyeing for a Category C seat at the upcoming International Maritime Organisation (IMO) elections.
The review process is expected to further strengthen Nigeria's commitment to ensuring decent work for all seafarers, in line with the MLC 2006, which provides a comprehensive international framework for ensuring decent working conditions for seafarers while promoting fair competition within the maritime industry.
The event was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Marin and Blue Economy; Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria; The Nigerian Merchant Navy Officers Amal’s Water Transport Senior Staff Association among other stakeholders in the industry.
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