DG NIMASA, presents reviewed minimum standard for seafaring industry

By Abiodun OBA

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, has presented the reviewed minimum standard for the seafaring industry.

The document is a landmark that establishes the benchmark for fair and safe working conditions, decent living wages, and social protection for seafarers developed in line with the provisions of the Maritime Labour Convention MLC 2006.

NIMASA’s spokesman, Edward Osagie, in a statement, disclosed that the document for 2023-2025, is a product of a Collective Bargaining Agreement involving employers of labour in the maritime sector, the leadership of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), NIMASA, and other stakeholders in the industry.

Dr. Dayo Mobereola, according to the statement, stressed, “Today, we gather to celebrate a significant achievement in our collective efforts to enhance the seafaring industry.

“I am honoured to present the reviewed minimum standard for the seafaring industry; a landmark document that establishes the benchmark for fair and safe working conditions, decent living wages, and social protection for our seafarers”.

Dr. Mobereola also emphasized the need for collaboration and swift action in finalizing the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) among ship owners, Nigerian trawler operators, Nigerian Merchant Navy Officers and Water Transport Senior Staff Association (NMNO/WTSSA), and the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) on the renewed minimum standards for Nigerian seafarers, to prevent payment backlogs and ensure timely compensation for employees.

In his words, “The revised standard provides a comprehensive framework outlining the terms and conditions of employment for maritime workers, including wages, working hours, health and safety regulations, and other benefits. This reflects the collective expertise and input of stakeholders and our shared commitment to continuous improvement.

This effort will contribute to sustaining an equitable and prosperous maritime labour industry.”

The Chairman of the National Seafarers Welfare Board, Alhaji Tijani Ramalan, who launched the document, emphasised the need to adhere to the provisions of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, stating that it will not only foster industrial harmony but also guarantee better working conditions for Nigerian seafarers.

The event concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders in the maritime industry to collaborate in upholding these minimum standards and building a better future for seafarers, the industry, and the nation.