By Taiwo Scholarstica
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has trained more than 2,459 cadets under its Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP), as part of efforts to build a skilled maritime workforce and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global shipping industry.
The Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, disclosed this during the 2026 Day of the Seafarer celebration held in Lagos.
Mobereola said the agency remains committed to developing competent Nigerian seafarers capable of competing favourably with their counterparts across the world.
According to him, the NSDP has become one of the agency’s flagship initiatives, providing maritime education, professional certification and career opportunities for young Nigerians seeking careers at sea.
The NIMASA chief stated that investment in human capacity development is essential to the growth of Nigeria’s maritime sector and the realization of the country’s blue economy aspirations.
Speaking on the theme of the celebration, “Carrying World Trade, Carrying the Risk,” he noted that seafarers play a vital role in sustaining global commerce by ensuring the movement of goods and commodities across continents.
He explained that shipping accounts for over 80 per cent of global trade by volume and more than 70 per cent by value, making seafarers indispensable to international economic activities.
Despite their importance, Mobereola said seafarers face numerous challenges, including demanding work conditions, security concerns and extended periods away from home.
To address these concerns, he said NIMASA has continued to strengthen compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, while also supporting initiatives aimed at improving seafarers’ welfare.
The Director-General further revealed that the adoption of international wage standards for Nigerian seafarers has resulted in earnings increasing by more than 150 per cent.
He urged stakeholders across the maritime sector to continue investing in training, safety and welfare programmes to ensure that seafarers are equipped to meet the evolving demands of the global shipping industry.
Mobereola added that the Day of the Seafarer celebration serves as an opportunity to recognise the dedication of maritime professionals and renew commitments towards their wellbeing and professional advancement.