Recognise Maritime Workers’ Contribution To Trade, Commerce – Ex-NPA Boss

The Mission to Seafarers, Nigeria, has appealed for deeper recognition of Seafarers for their vital contributions to trade and commerce across the world.

The event, which was held at the Anglican Church of Resurrection, Victoria Island on Sunday, honoured the selfless sacrifices of seafarers.

Speaking to LEADERSHIP, the chairman of Mission To Seafarers, Chief Adebayo Sarumi, called on Nigerians to reflect on the critical role seafarers play in their everyday life.

Sarumi, a former managing director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), emphasised that without Seafarers’ relentless efforts, most of the goods and materials that sustain economies and households would never reach their destinations.

“You probably don’t understand the seriousness of what we are doing today,” Sarumi said. “Just look around you, if you’re not careful, the only things made in Nigeria might be you, your spouse, and your children. Virtually everything else comes from abroad. And who brings them to our shores? The seafarers.”

Sarumi stressed that even in regions afflicted by war or political unrest such as Ukraine, Gaza, or the Red Sea, seafarers continue to brave hostile waters to deliver essential goods, often risking their lives in the process.

He also praised the Mission to Seafarers’ global humanitarian work, which spans more than 200 centres in 50 countries.

According to him, these centres serve as sanctuaries for seafarers, offering them legal, medical, spiritual, and psychological support.

In some cases, the mission even offers shelter and a temporary home to distressed seafarers in need of care and reconnection with their families.

“These centres are like an oasis in the vast desert of the sea,” he said. “They provide a home where seafarers can rest, communicate with loved ones, or enjoy simple comforts like a meal or internet access.”

Sarumi thanked religious leaders and members of the congregation who turned out in large numbers for the event, acknowledging their unwavering support and commitment to the mission’s goals.

“Whatever it is that you do, remember there are people out there making life more comfortable for you, not just by bringing local products, but goods from across the globe, right to your doorstep,” he concluded.

In a stirring message delivered during the service, Venerable Oduwole Tunde reminded seafarers and the wider Christian community of God’s constant presence and peace, even in the most turbulent times.

Drawing inspiration from Psalm 39 and the Gospel account of Jesus calming the storm, the speaker emphasised that God is present even when His followers are at their lowest.