Seafarers Day: MWUN PG, Bunu lauds NIMASA, calls for onboard anti-harassment campaign

Port Harcourt, Rivers State

The President General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu has commended the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its commitment to protecting seafarers’ rights and welfare.

Bunu made the remarks during the 2025 Seafarers Day celebration held in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

The MWUN PG specifically lauded the leadership of Dr. Dayo Mobereola at NIMASA, acknowledging the agency’s prioritization of seafarers’ well-being.

He also extended his appreciation to the Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for assembling a competent team at NIMASA, stating this was crucial for the sector’s progress.

Bunu urged the government to further empower NIMASA to enhance its efforts for seafarers, pledging MWUN’s full support to the Minister for his impactful work.

Bunu highlighted the Minister’s initiative to resuscitate the National Shipping Line as an indicator of the ministry’s dedication to fostering the growth of Nigerian seafarers.

Speaking on the theme of this year’s celebration, “My Harassment, Free Ship,” Bunu appealed to NIMASA to extend the anti-harassment campaign beyond the shores and directly onto vessels, emphasizing the need for direct interaction with seafarers in their working environment.

“I will urge NIMASA to carry this campaign on harassment onboard vessels because those who are committing this act are on the vessels not ashore. So the campaign should be taken to the doors of the seafarers,” Bunu stated, stressing that direct engagement onboard ships is crucial to effectively tackle harassment at its source.