As the global community commemorates the 2026 World Day of Seafarers, maritime expert, Master Mariner, and development advocate Capt. Caleb Danladi, PhD, has called for increased recognition, protection, and investment in seafarers whose dedication keeps the global economy moving despite enormous challenges and risks.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Carrying World Trade. Carrying the Risks,” Capt. Danladi described seafarers as the unseen workforce behind international commerce, responsible for transporting over 80 percent of global trade by volume across oceans and waterways.
According to him, “Every day, thousands of ships move food, fuel, medicines, industrial equipment, and consumer goods across the world’s oceans. Behind every successful voyage are seafarers who spend months away from their families, often working under demanding conditions to ensure that global supply chains remain uninterrupted” .
Capt. Danladi noted that while seafarers play a critical role in sustaining international trade and economic development, they continue to face significant challenges, including maritime insecurity, piracy, mental health pressures, prolonged periods at sea, safety concerns, and the impact of geopolitical tensions and climate-related disruptions.
According to him, the theme for this year’s celebration highlights the often-overlooked sacrifices made by seafarers who not only carry the world’s trade but also bear substantial operational and personal risks in the course of their duties.
He emphasized that”the global economy depends on seafarers, yet their contributions are frequently taken for granted. It is imperative for governments, maritime administrations, shipping companies, and international organizations to strengthen policies that safeguard their welfare, safety, and professional development”.
Turning attention to Nigeria’s maritime sector, Capt. Danladi stressed the need for strategic investments in maritime education, seafarer training, certification, and employment opportunities to support the Federal Government’s Blue Economy agenda.
He called for enhanced support for maritime institutions, improved access to sea-time training opportunities for cadets, modernization of port infrastructure, and stronger collaboration between government and the private sector to create pathways for Nigerian seafarers to compete effectively in the global maritime industry.
“Nigeria possesses immense maritime potential. By investing in our seafarers and maritime workforce, we can strengthen national trade, create jobs, boost foreign exchange earnings, and unlock the full benefits of the Blue Economy,” he said.
Capt. Danladi further urged policymakers to prioritize seafarer welfare initiatives, maritime safety measures, and capacity-building programs that will empower the next generation of maritime professionals.
As the world celebrates the men and women who keep international trade flowing, he encouraged Nigerians to recognize the invaluable contributions of seafarers and support efforts aimed at improving their working conditions and professional advancement.
“The story of global trade cannot be told without seafarers. Their resilience, professionalism, and sacrifice deserve our gratitude and our commitment to ensuring that they work in safer, more secure, and more rewarding environments.”
He went on to wish all Seafarers across Nigeria and around the world a happy World Day of Seafarers 2026 .
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