The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to advancing the welfare and rights of maritime workers, describing them as indispensable pillars in Nigeria’s economic journey.
In a statement issued in Abuja to mark the 2025 International Workers’ Day, Oyetola paid glowing tribute to the dedication, resilience, and invaluable contributions of the workforce across Nigeria’s marine and blue economy sector.
“Today, I join millions of Nigerians to salute the unwavering spirit and industriousness of our maritime workers—from seafarers and dockworkers to port administrators and regulators. Your efforts are the bedrock of our nation’s gateway to trade and economic prosperity,” the minister stated.
Oyetola emphasized the strategic importance of the maritime industry in shaping Nigeria’s economic destiny, noting its vital role in the actualization of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Without your daily sacrifices and commitment to excellence, our ports and inland waterways would not function as efficiently as they do. You represent the strength and tenacity of our national workforce, and your dedication inspires our collective ambition to transform Nigeria into a maritime hub of global repute,” he said.
He assured maritime professionals of the ministry’s resolve to invest in infrastructure, modern technologies, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at boosting productivity and creating safer, more efficient working conditions.
“As we celebrate this year’s Workers’ Day, I wish to assure all maritime professionals that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy stands firmly with you. Together, we will build a modern, secure, and thriving maritime sector that creates jobs, drives innovation, and enhances national development,” Oyetola affirmed.
He further called for strengthened collaboration among government agencies, labour unions, and private sector stakeholders to ensure the continuous growth of a motivated, competitive, and future-ready maritime workforce.
Observed annually on May 1, International Workers’ Day is a global celebration of workers’ rights and their critical role in advancing social and economic development.