By seaflyponews 
Nigeria seeks ILO Governing body support to secure IMO category C seat
By Babatunde Aremu
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has again taken the campaign for Nigeria’s bid to win election into the elusive Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in December to the International Labour Organizations (ILO) govering body in Geneva ,Switzerland.
Speaking at the 353rd session of the ILO governing body taking place between March 10th- 12th, 2025, Oyetola informed the august body of the intention of Nigeria to contest for the
biennium IMO election and solicited for its support.
Represented by Dr Dayo Mobereola, the Director – General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the Minister declared that election of Nigeria into IMO Category C will enhance and boost African interests in the global maritime industry.
“Nigeria has the intention to contest for a seat in the IMO Council’s Category C, which will give the country a chance to, “Advocate for stronger global regulations that protect maritime labour rights, push for enhanced technical cooperation and capacity-building for developing nations, and strengthen Africa’s voice in shaping IMO policies that promote fair labour conditions, sustainable maritime practices, and enhanced security in international waters” the Minister told the ILO leaders.
“In light of Nigeria’s commitment to the policies and guidelines of the ILO, IMO, and WHO, Nigeria has decided to reinforce its dedication to these esteemed international agencies.
“The country intends to play a more significant role in ensuring that Nigeria and Africa are visible in the international community.
“For this reason, Nigeria will be contesting for a seat in Category C of the IMO Council in the 2026-2027 biennium” Oyetola informed.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government of Nigeria through its Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), has continued its advocacy for the formal designation of seafarers as key workers.
This, the government explained, would ensure legal protection, and a harmonised framework between the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), and the World Health Organisation (WHO) that supports safe working conditions for Seafarers and other Maritime professionals.
Speaking through Dr Mobereola, the minister , at the ILO meeting, said the role of seafarers and workers in the maritime industry must be recognised, held in high esteem, and treated fairly, considering their critical contributions to global trade and non-stop supply chain maintenance.“We recognize that the world’s economy depends heavily on seafarers and maritime professionals who operate vessels, facilitate port operations, and ensure the seamless movement of goods across international waters.
” However, these key workers often face labour rights challenges, including unfair employment conditions, restricted mobility, and lack of access to adequate welfare provisions issues that were exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It is in this regard that Nigeria has been at the forefront, both within ILO and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), advocating for the formal designation of seafarers as key workers.
” This recognition is essential to ensuring: Legal protection for seafarers, port workers, pilots, and marine surveyors under both ILO and IMO conventions; Guaranteed priority access to medical care, vaccines, and mobility rights during public health crises and emergencies; Fair and equitable treatment in labour contracts, ensuring compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006),” Oyetola said.
He emphasised the need for a harmonized framework between the IL0 Governing body in Geneva, Switzerland