Nigerian seafarers play a far greater role than many people realize and should be recognized as key contributors to the country's economic growth and development, according to maritime expert Captain Ladi Olubowale.
Speaking ahead of the 2026 Day of the Seafarer, celebrated globally on June 25, Olubowale said seafarers are strategic national assets whose skills support international trade, energy security, maritime development, and the growth of Nigeria's economy.
This year's Day of the Seafarer theme, "Carrying World Trade. Carrying the Risks," highlights the sacrifices made by seafarers while ensuring goods move across the world. According to Olubowale, these professionals often spend long periods away from their families, face physical and mental challenges, and work under demanding conditions to keep global supply chains running smoothly.
He noted that every cargo delivered safely and every vessel that arrives at its destination depends on the dedication and professionalism of seafarers. Despite their importance, they often receive little public recognition for their contributions.
Olubowale pointed out that recent global disruptions demonstrated just how essential seafarers are. Even when borders were closed and many industries slowed down, seafarers continued working to ensure that food, fuel, medical supplies, and other critical goods reached their destinations.
He stressed that Nigeria's ambition to become a leading maritime nation in Africa will depend heavily on developing and supporting a highly skilled maritime workforce. According to him, countries such as Norway, Singapore, Greece, Denmark, Japan, South Korea, and the Netherlands achieved maritime success by investing consistently in maritime professionals rather than relying solely on ships, ports, and infrastructure.
The maritime expert explained that the future of Nigeria's shipping industry, offshore energy sector, coastal trade, marine services, and blue economy will largely be determined by the quality of its seafarers and maritime professionals.
As Nigeria continues to pursue its Blue Economy agenda, Olubowale urged policymakers and industry stakeholders to prioritize local capacity development, training, and long-term support for indigenous maritime workers. He emphasized that sustainable growth in the maritime sector will require skilled professionals capable of creating value across shipping, fisheries, marine logistics, offshore energy, maritime security, tourism, and ocean governance.
He concluded that building a strong maritime nation begins with investing in the people who keep the industry moving, adding that no country can achieve lasting maritime success without a strong and well-supported seafaring workforce.
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