The National Seafarers Welfare Board of Nigeria (NSWBN), has offered to support seafarers, but would do so strictly Online as a result of the prevailing situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Executive Chairman of the Board, Otunba Kunle Folarin, in a memo on Sunday, explained that the support would be available to seafarers of all nationalities as well as specific areas it would cover.
“We are at this difficult period committed to online voluntary free support to seafarers of all nationalities and maritime organisations, in the areas of social, moral and spiritual well-being and to do so strictly in line with the Nigerian national, state and government maritime agencies directions on COVID-19,” Folarin said.
He made clear that “Currently, activities of the NSWB regarding physical ship visits, counselling and support for seafarers to access shore-based welfare facilities and services in seaports, terminal and jetties have for the time being suspended due to the prevalent situation of the COVID-19.”
The Board encouraged seafarers to maintain hygiene, regular hand-washing, use alcohol-based sanitizer, face mask, maintain social distancing, and healthy living.
Seafarers are also advised to “Remain onboard, ports and strictly adhere to national and maritime agencies’ directives on COVID –19.”
The National Seafarers Welfare Board of Nigeria is a non-profit organisation established in 2003 and register incorporated trustees with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) of Nigeria on March 30th, 2007 to provide shore-based welfare services and facilities to local and international seafarers in seaports, terminal and jetties.
It is an affiliate of international Seafarers Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) London, supporting and promoting the well-being of seafarers globally.
