The Acting Managing Director of the NPA, Mohammed Bello Koko, has affirmed the commitment and determination of the Management in improving the welfare of seafarers in the sub- sector.
Koko made the remarks in a goodwill message at the 2021 World Maritime Day celebration with the theme “Seafarers at the Core of Shipping’ Future’ organized by the Federal Ministry of Transportation, held in Lagos.
He noted that improved seafarers’ welfare would impact positively on the services provided by the seafarers and by extension, contribution to the growth of global trade.
Koko, at the event, saluted the doggedness of the seafarers in providing succour in the movement and transfer of goods and services globally to various climes in the face of various challenges ranging from unfavourable weather conditions to attacks from pirates at sea.
He charged all who were present, particularly the stakeholders, to make available a friendly environment to the seafarers in view of the critical role they play in the lives of the Nigerian nation, noting the numerous unforeseen challenges they would be facing in the nearest future in the discharge of the duties on sea.
Recall that the International Maritime Organization (IMO) was established in Geneva 1948 but began its operations in 1958 with 174 member nations.
Today, it is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to regulate and monitor the Safety, Security and environmental performance of International Shipping.
Koko said that the theme of this year’s celebration captures the essence of the professionalism showcased by the seafarers, even in the face of the covid-19 pandemic threats, under which they strive for excellence.
He also noted that sea transportation is “world acclaimed as the most environmental friendly form of transportation.”
He described seafarers as major role players in sea transportation, pointing out that “they are global treasures and assets in world maritime trade.”
Quoting the seminal words of maritime novelist Lieutenant Commander Nicholas Monsarrat, Koko said “Sailors, with their built-in sense of order, service and discipline, should really be running the world.”
He challenged stakeholders to contribute more in ensuring that global ports operations are eco-friendlier, while efforts should be in unison toward the actualization of world ports sustainability.
The world Maritime Day celebration, an initiative of the international maritime organization (IMO), is a day in the month of September annually set aside to celebrate the contributions of the global maritime sector to world economy.
This year the focus is on the seafarers, under the theme “Seafarers At The Core of Shipping’s Future.”
