Seafarers Welfare Crucial To Success Of Maritime Sector, Jamoh Declares
· Agency Hosts Workshop On Seafarers Medical Certification In Lagos
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has declared that the welfare of seafarers remains crucial to the success of the nation’s maritime industry.
Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Bahir Jamoh, stated this at an enlightenment workshop for seafarers, employers of seafarers, and other maritime stakeholders in Lagos on Seafarers’ Medical Certification and other related issues bothering their health and well-being.
Speaking at the event, Jamoh, who was represented by the Head of, the Administration and Human Resources Department, Hamisu Gambo, reminded participants that the safety of seafarers is at the core of an efficient and productive maritime sector.
He said: “The safety and well-being of seafarers is paramount in ensuring the smooth operation and success of the maritime industry. The ability to maintain high medical standards and certifications is not only a legal requirement but crucial to safeguarding the lives of those who dedicate their careers to the sea.”
Jamoh disclosed that the agency organized the event to ensure that ship owners, workers’ unions, employers of labor and other stakeholders were well informed on the issue of seafarers’ medical certification.
“This workshop has been meticulously planned to address concerns faced by the rejection of medical certificates issued to seafarers by some facilities and to equip all with the knowledge and tools needed to meet the stringent medical requirements set forth by international maritime authorities,” he said.
Some of the topics addressed at the workshop include a Comprehensive Overview of Medical Fitness Standards and Guidelines; Updates on the Latest Medical Advancements and Guidelines and Understanding the Medical Examination Process for Seafarers.
Also at the event, medical screening forms, plaques, and certificates were distributed to approved doctors to aid in their screening of seafarers, just as the forum served as an opportunity for networking among the medical and maritime practitioners.