World Maritime Day: Stakeholder Calls For Practical Support For Seafarers

Commercial boat operators at the Nembe Waterfront in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, have called for stronger government support and more training opportunities for seafarers as Nigeria joins the international community to mark World Maritime Day.

Speaking with a Bonny FM correspondent, Chairman of Bille Maritime, Glasgow Tamunotonye, said this year’s theme, ‘From Policy to Practice, Powering Maritime Excellence,’ should translate into practical measures that benefit workers in the sector.

Tamunotonye called for more training opportunities for seafarers, particularly in other areas of the marine industry, to equip them with additional skills and expand their employment opportunities.

He also expressed concern over declining activities at the jetty, which he attributed to improved road access and its impact on water transportation, and appealed to the government to address the rising cost of fuel.

Some parked boats at the Nembe Waterfront in Port Harcourt, Rivers State

World Maritime Day is observed annually on September 24 to highlight the importance of shipping, maritime safety and security, and protection of the marine environment.