– Experts lament low representation
Esther Oritse
Lagos — Nigeria is said to accounts for less than 2.3 percent of the global seafaring workforce, with only about 6,000 sailors registered out of the 1.9 million seafarers listed worldwide.
Speaking at the quarterly lecture of the Nigerian Association of Master Mariners (NAMM), Capt. Rasheed Onakoya stated that only government intervention through deliberate policies can reverse the trend.
Onakoya also said that there are more seafarers than ships and shipping companies worldwide hence the increase in the employment of sailors globally.
He explained that the maritime training institutions across the country must be upgraded in line with international best practice.
He said:”Nigeria currently record less than 2.3 percent of global seafarers following the 6,000 registered sailors in the 1.9 global registry of seafarers.
“The trend is a global one even the developed in nations. The Asian countries are moving to close the gaps. Seafarering profession can be used to close the unemployment gap in Nigeria.
“We need to conquer the local markets through quality seafaring education. If we can get this aspect right, we can close the gaps both locally and internationally. In the aspect of training, certification is very important.
“Nigerian seafarers are indispensable to maritime operations, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of goods, enforcing international maritime standards, and maintaining port efficiency.”
Despite their strategic role, he lamented that many seafarers face poor working conditions, delayed or underpaid wages, inadequate medical care, and arbitrary dismissals violations that undermine their dignity and contributions to national development.
Onakoya identified wage disparities, poor infrastructure, corruption in certificate processing, and inadequate training facilities that fail to meet international standards as key obstacles undermining the growth and global competitiveness of Nigerian seafarers.
To address these challenges, he recommended a multi-pronged approach, including enhanced maritime education and training, enforcement of labour policies, institutional reforms, and the appointment of core marine professionals in key government and industry positions.
He also stressed the need for political will to ensure the effective implementation of existing maritime conventions and laws.
“Building a safe, secure, and efficient shipping industry requires comprehensive standards and the inclusion of skilled managers and technocrats with intellectual and professional expertise,” he stated.
