Workers’ Day: Minister reaffirms commitment to maritime workers’ welfare

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy,, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to fostering policies that protect the rights and welfare of maritime workers in the country.

Oyetola stated this in a statement issued in Abuja to mark the 2025 International Workers’ Day.

Tthe Minister lauded the resilience, dedication, and invaluable contributions of workers within the marine and blue economy sector to the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s economy.

“Today, I join millions of Nigerians to salute the unwavering spirit and industriousness of our maritime workers — from seafarers and dockworkers to port administrators and regulators. Your efforts are the bedrock of our nation’s gateway to trade and economic prosperity,” Oyetola said.

He described the maritime industry as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic architecture and emphasized that the sector remains vital to the realization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

“Without your daily sacrifices and commitment to excellence, our ports and inland waterways would not function as efficiently as they do. You represent the strength and tenacity of our national workforce, and your dedication inspires our collective ambition to transform Nigeria into a maritime hub of global repute,” the Minister stated.

Oyetola also pledged to prioritize investments in infrastructure, technology, and training that would enhance productivity and working conditions in the sector.

“As we celebrate this year’s Workers’ Day, I wish to assure all maritime professionals that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy stands firmly with you. Together, we will build a modern, secure, and thriving maritime sector that creates jobs, drives innovation, and enhances national development,” he concluded.

The Minister also used the occasion to call for continued collaboration between government agencies, labour unions, and private stakeholders to ensure that the maritime workforce remains competitive, well-motivated, and future-ready.

International Workers’ Day, also known as May Day, is observed annually on May 1 to celebrate workers’ rights and highlight the vital role they play in driving socio-economic advancement.