Emmanuel OchayiThe Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) conducted a workshop in Lagos on Seafarers’ Medical Certification as part of measures to highlight the significance of seafarers’ welfare in the country’s maritime sector.
The event gathered seafarers, employers in the maritime industry, and other stakeholders keen on addressing health-related concerns affecting Nigerian seafarers.
The Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, who delivered a keynote, stressed the vital role seafarers play in ensuring the efficiency and productivity of the maritime sector.
Represented by Hamisu Gambo, the Head of the Administration and Human Resources Department, Dr. Jamoh affirmed that seafarers’ safety and well-being are of utmost importance.
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Dr. Jamoh 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.”
The Director General further explained that the workshop was orgnised to inform ship owners, workers’ unions, employers of labor, and other stakeholders about the intricacies of seafarers’ medical certification.
“This workshop has been meticulously curated to address the pressing 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.”
During the workshop, various topics were covered, including a comprehensive overview of medical fitness standards and guidelines, updates on the latest medical advancements and guidelines, and an understanding of the medical examination process for seafarers.
Additionally, the event saw the distribution of medical screening forms, plaques, and certificates to approved doctors, facilitating their role in screening seafarers. It also provided an opportunity for networking among medical and maritime practitioners, fostering a collaborative approach to seafarers’ health and safety.
The workshop underscored NIMASA’s commitment to enhancing the well-being of seafarers and ensuring the continued success of the Nigerian maritime sector.
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