The President Federal Republic of Nigeria Aso Rock Presidential Villa Three Arms Zone, Abuja Federal Capital Territory MAYDAY! MAYDAY! A DISTRESS CALL FROM NIGERIAN SEAFARERS We, the undersigned Nigerian Seafarers, write to Your Excellency with utmost urgency and patriotic concern. Our cry is not just for survival, but for justice, inclusion, and national development in the maritime sector. Despite being duly certified and qualified, Nigerian seafarers are systematically sidelined in favour of foreigners, in direct violation of the Cabotage Act. The abuse of waivers by officials of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) continues to deny us opportunities in our own waters. OUR KEY CHALLENGES 1. Certification Limitations: The issuance of Near Coastal Voyage (NCV) certification restricts us from global employment. We request a transition to Foreign-Going certification in line with international standards. 2. Visa Restrictions: Nigerian se...
