The President-General of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, has joined the global maritime community in celebrating seafarers on the occasion of the 2026 Day of the Seafarer, while calling for improved welfare, enhanced training opportunities, and the revival of Nigeria’s national shipping line.
The annual event, observed worldwide on June 25, highlights the invaluable contributions of seafarers to global trade and economic development. This year’s theme, “Carrying World Trade, Carrying the Risks,” draws attention to the growing challenges faced by seafarers amid rising geopolitical tensions in key maritime corridors, including the Strait of Hormuz, the Black Sea, the Sea of Azov, and the Red Sea region.
Comrade Bunu noted that the theme serves as a timely reminder that seafarers should never become victims or collateral damage of geopolitical conflicts, despite the critical role they play in sustaining international commerce.
According to him, the annual celebration provides an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices, resilience, and dedication of seafarers who continue to navigate dangerous waters and ensure the uninterrupted movement of global trade under increasingly difficult conditions.
He commended Nigerian seafarers and their counterparts across the world for their discipline, commitment, and professionalism despite the uncertainties and risks associated with the profession.
The MWUN leader, who is also a seasoned seafarer and labour activist, expressed concern over the state of maritime training in Nigeria, particularly at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron. He lamented that many graduates leave the institution without adequate certifications and sea-time experience required to compete effectively in the international maritime labour market.
Bunu warned that the situation has contributed to rising unemployment among trained maritime professionals, many of whom struggle to secure jobs after graduation.
He also decried the absence of a national shipping carrier, recalling the era of the defunct Nigerian National Shipping Line (NNSL), which he described as a source of pride and employment for Nigerian seafarers.
The labour leader urged the Federal Government and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy to take deliberate steps toward reviving a national shipping line that would create employment opportunities, enhance indigenous participation in shipping, and restore Nigeria’s presence in global maritime trade.
While acknowledging the efforts of stakeholders across the maritime industry, Bunu commended industry practitioners for their contributions to the sector’s growth and for maintaining a productive partnership with the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria.
He expressed optimism that with the right policies and investments, Nigeria’s maritime sector would attain its rightful position among leading maritime nations and deliver greater opportunities for seafarers and industry professionals.
The MWUN President-General concluded by wishing all seafarers a successful and memorable Day of the Seafarer 2026, while reiterating the need for stronger support systems to safeguard their welfare and professional development.
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