Nigeria has endorsed the amendments to eight Codes of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 to enhance seafarers’ welfare. The amendments include the codes related to the protection of seafarers against discrimination, identification of seafarers as key workers, enhanced access to shore-based welfare for seafarers, and the code on shipboard violence, harassment and bullying, accommodation and recreational facilities onboard.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who led Nigeria’s delegation to the fifth International Labour Organisation (ILO) Special Tripartite Committee meeting in Geneva Switzerland, emphasised the country’s commitment to the welfare, rights and protection of seafarers.

The Minister, who was represented by the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, commended the ILO for fostering dialogue on maritime labour standards.

Oyetola reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to ensuring decent working and living conditions for seafarers, noting the recently approved minimum wage in line with ILO standards.

The ILO Joint Maritime Commission (JMC) Subcommittee on Wages of Seafarers had reached an agreement to raise the minimum monthly basic wage for seafarers.
The wage will increase from the current level of $673 to $690 starting in January 2026, then to $704 in January 2027 and to $715 in January 2028.

These increases represent a yearly rise of 2.5 per cent, two per cent and 1.6 per cent, resulting in a total wage increase of 6.2 per cent over the three years.

Oyetola also used the platform to reinforce Nigeria’s bid for election to Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council during the upcoming elections scheduled for November/December this year.

He stated that Nigeria’s inclusion in the Council would strengthen Africa’s representation and voice in shaping international maritime policies that promote fair labour practices, environmental sustainability and technical cooperation.

The Special Tripartite Committee comprises representatives from countries that have ratified the MLC 2006 and mostly from Maritime Administrations who also attend IMO meetings. This is the very first time Nigeria is widening the scope of its campaign to engage strategically with relevant international agencies.