From Idu Jude Abuja
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) says it is ready to join other nations across the globe in celebrating the Day of the Seafarer 2024.
A release from Mr Edward Osage, Assistant Director of Public Relations, indicated that the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and his counterpart, the Minister of State for Labour and Productivity, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, will be leading other dignitaries, including the Director General of NIMASA, Dr Bashir Jamoh, and the head of the ITF Seafarers’ Trust Fund, Katie Higginbottom, to the commemoration scheduled to take place in Lagos.
The statement noted that the Director General of NIMASA, Dr Bashir Jamoh, had urged Nigerians to participate in this year’s celebrations, adding that the use of #SafetyTipsAtSea on all social media platforms will ensure adequate exposure to Nigeria’s celebration of Seafarers’ Day, in line with the theme of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
Read also: NIMASA DG eulogises late Ferdinand Agu
In his words: “Seafarers are the unsung heroes of our global economy. I will even describe them as the lifeblood of international trade. They sacrifice a lot for humanity’s existence as they leave 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 will feel appreciated,” he stated.
“The 2024 commemoration is another way of bringing to the fore the importance of seafarers as essential workers, and the IMO has set 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 take a career in seafaring.”
