IMD 2025: Adeyanju Calls For Global Unity To Protect Oceans

IMD 2025: Adeyanju Calls For Global Unity To Protect Oceans

Vice Chairman ITF,and Deputy vice president,NLC, comrade Adewale Adeyanju, speaking at the IMD,celebration ,on Thursday, 25 September,2025 n Lagos 

By Frank Odinukaeze

The Vice Chairman of the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) and Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, has joined the global maritime community in celebrating the International Maritime Day (IMD) 2025, urging stakeholders to prioritize ocean protection for the sake of humanity and economic growth.
Speaking at an event held at Ikoyi Hotel, Lagos, on Thursday, Adeyanju described this year’s IMD theme, “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity”, as timely and diverse, emphasizing the invaluable role of the ocean in food security, trade, employment, biodiversity, and climate regulation.
He stressed that maritime workers must uphold international rules, including the ISPS Code, to safeguard the maritime environment and ensure sustainable operations worldwide.
“If we as mariners must enjoy the gift of the ocean, we must protect it, keep all the rules, regulations and standards that govern maritime operations globally. Only then will the world be a better place for us to live through the maritime space,” Adeyanju said.
Highlighting Nigeria’s growing blue economy, Adeyanju commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Adegboyega Oyetola, for his vision and achievements within a short time in office. He noted that Oyetola’s policies were already creating wealth and employment opportunities in the maritime sector.
Adeyanju also called on Nigerians to embrace professionalism in marine and blue economy trades, stressing that the sector remains critical to both local and international commerce.
“When we are talking about the blue economy, we cannot divorce the ocean from it. The creator has given it to nature; therefore, we must protect it so that we don’t lose out on trade, jobs, and economic stability,” he added.
In his goodwill message, Adeyanju extended congratulations to maritime workers in Nigeria and across the globe, expressing optimism that collective efforts would keep the oceans safe, fresh, and beneficial for all.
The International Maritime Day is celebrated annually on September 25 to draw global attention to the importance of shipping, maritime safety, and the sustainable use of oceans.