Nigerian Seafarers to Receive 150% Pay Increase

Dr. Dayo Mobereola, the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), announced a 150% pay rise for Nigerian seafarers during the 2026 Day of the Seafarer celebration in Lagos. This development aims to enhance the welfare of seafarers and align Nigeria's maritime labor standards with global best practices, as emphasized by the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) and the International Labour Organization (ILO).

Mobereola highlighted the significance of maritime transport, which accounts for 80% of global trade volume and 70% of trade value, underscoring the critical role of seafarers in global commerce. NIMASA has trained 2,459 cadets under the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP) and remains committed to enforcing the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006.

Senator Wasiu Sanni Eshi Lokun, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, pledged continued legislative support for the growth of the maritime sector, including initiatives to improve safety, modernize port infrastructure, and strengthen indigenous shipping.