Dear Colleagues,
Every June 25 is globally recognised as the Day of the Seafarer, a day set aside to celebrate the vital and indelible contributions of all seafarers to the global economy. We at NSML also lend our voices to celebrate the bravery, selflessness, commitment, and professionalism of our seafarers, who work tirelessly and relentlessly across the globe to sustain global trade and transport.
This year’s theme, “Carrying world trade. Carrying the risks,” is a timely reminder that behind the movement of goods, energy, food, medicines and essential commodities are millions of men and women who continue to serve with dedication, often far from home and under demanding conditions.
Seafarers remain the unseen backbone of world trade. Their work connects nations, sustains economies and keeps supply chains functioning even in periods of uncertainty, disruption and heightened global risk. Yet, this vital contribution comes with real sacrifices: long periods away from family, exposure to harsh weather, fatigue, isolation, security threats, operational pressures and the ever-present hazards of life at sea.
For us in NSML, we understand that our purpose, vision, mission and reputation are anchored on the skill, discipline and commitment of our seafarers. They are central to the safe and reliable operation of vessels, the delivery of marine services, the protection of lives and assets, and the advancement of Nigeria’s maritime capability. Their professionalism gives confidence to our clients, strengthens our industry and reinforces the standards of excellence to which we aspire. We are fully aware of the challenges and risks seafarers encounter in their day-to-day operations. It is therefore of utmost importance to us that our seafarers sail on their tour of duty and return home unharmed. Safety remains our license to operate, and a strategic priority in our business. It is foundational to the value proposition we provide to our stakeholders as enshrined in our strategy statement of “Be Safe, Be Reliable, Create Value”.
Given the nature of our business and the inherent risks involved in what we do, we take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to Goal Zero in every area of our operations, holding ourselves to the standard of zero harm to people, assets or the environment. Our value proposition to our seafarers behoves us to:
- ensure their safety onboard our vessels through the implementation of clear procedures and providing all the resources required to protect them from the assessed risks facing them daily;
- support their mental and physical health through a robust e-health & wellness platform accessible to them in the far reaches of the globe;
- provide opportunities and support their growth and career development equitably and transparently;
- return them home safely at the end of their tours.
Today, as always, we recognise not only what seafarers do, but what they endure. We honour their sacrifice, their vigilance and their quiet heroism. We also reaffirm our responsibility as an organisation to continue supporting a safe, respectful, and enabling environment that promotes their welfare, wellbeing, competence, and dignity.
On behalf of the NSML Leadership Team, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all seafarers, especially those serving within our fleet and across our operations. Your service keeps trade moving, communities supplied and economies connected. We are proud of you, we value you, and we remain committed to standing with you as you carry world trade and carry the risks with courage and distinction.
Wishing you all a Happy International Day of the Seafarer!
Abdulkadir K. Ahmed
MD/CEO, NSML
