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FG Seeks ILO, IMO Collaboration to Combat Labour Exploitation

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4 days ago

Mar 22, 2025.

At the 353rd session of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Governing Body, Nigeria emphasized the need for a harmonized framework among the ILO, International Maritime Organisation (IMO), and World Health Organisation (WHO) to ensure safe working conditions, prevent labour exploitation, and uphold international labour standards across the maritime sector.
Oyetola announced Nigeria’s intention to contest for a seat in the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council’s Category C.
The Minister highlighted the alignment of the session’s agenda with Nigeria’s priorities in the maritime and blue economy sectors.

At the 353rd session of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Governing Body, Nigeria emphasized the need for a harmonized framework among the ILO, International Maritime Organisation (IMO), and World Health Organisation (WHO) to ensure safe working conditions, prevent labour exploitation, and uphold international labour standards across the maritime sector.

Eko Hot Blog reports that the Federal Government, represented by Dayo Mobereola, Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), underscored the critical role of seafarers and maritime workers in sustaining global trade and maintaining uninterrupted supply chains.

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In a statement by NIMASA’s Head of Public Relations, Osagie Edward, Minister Adegboyega Oyetola highlighted Nigeria’s vital position as the largest supplier of seafarers and port workers in Africa, emphasizing the country’s commitment to providing a fair and equitable environment for its maritime workforce.

Oyetola explained, “We recognize that the world’s economy depends heavily on seafarers and maritime professionals who operate vessels, facilitate port operations, and ensure the seamless movement of goods across international waters. These key workers often face labour rights challenges, including unfair employment conditions, restricted mobility, and inadequate access to welfare provisions—issues that were exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

He continued, “It is in this regard that Nigeria has been at the forefront, both within the ILO and the International Maritime Organisation, advocating for the formal designation of seafarers as key workers.

“This recognition is essential to ensuring legal protection for seafarers, port workers, pilots, and marine surveyors under both ILO and IMO conventions; guaranteed priority access to medical care, vaccines, and mobility rights during public health crises; and fair, equitable treatment in labour contracts in compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006).”

The Minister highlighted the alignment of the session’s agenda with Nigeria’s priorities in the maritime and blue economy sectors.

The agenda included discussions on global labour policies, country-specific developments under ILO supervision, the 2026-2027 Programme and Budget, decent work in supply chains, the Global Framework on Chemicals, and various labour issues.

He also noted that Nigeria has implemented bold measures to enhance the welfare of its maritime workforce, focusing on ensuring fair labour practices and adhering to global standards.

“Through our National Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP), we have expanded training opportunities and improved employment pathways for Nigerian seafarers, enhancing their competitiveness in the global shipping industry.

“We have also strengthened port security, ensured compliance with international safety standards, and enhanced labour rights enforcement so that our maritime workers operate under dignified, fair, and secure conditions,” he said.

FG Seeks ILO, IMO Collaboration to Combat Labour Exploitation

Oyetola announced Nigeria’s intention to contest for a seat in the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council’s Category C.

This position would provide the country with a platform to champion stronger global regulations for maritime labour rights, promote technical cooperation, and drive capacity-building initiatives for developing nations.

Nigeria’s pursuit of a seat on the IMO Council reflects its dedication to fostering a fair and sustainable maritime sector.

By advocating for improved labour conditions, sustainable maritime practices, and enhanced security in international waters, Nigeria aims to amplify Africa’s voice in shaping IMO policies that benefit the global maritime community.

“In light of Nigeria’s commitment to the policies and guidelines of the ILO, IMO, and WHO, we are reinforcing our dedication to these esteemed international agencies.

“Nigeria intends to play a more significant role in ensuring that both Nigeria and Africa are visible in the international community. For this reason, Nigeria will be contesting for a seat in Category C of the IMO Council for the 2026-2027 biennium,” the Minister added.

He pledged Nigeria’s commitment to collaborate with global stakeholders to secure a better future for shipping, global supply chains, and robust maritime labour policies.