Abuja MoU Joins the Global Maritime Community in Celebrating the 2026 Day of the Seafarer
Theme: “Carrying World Trade. Carrying the Risks.”
The Secretariat of the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control (Abuja MoU) proudly joins the International Maritime Organization (IMO), its twenty-two Member States, maritime administrations, industry stakeholders and the global maritime community in commemorating the 2026 Day of the Seafarer on 25 June 2026.
This year’s theme, “Carrying World Trade. Carrying the Risks.”, highlights the indispensable role of seafarers in sustaining global trade while drawing attention to the significant risks and challenges they face in the course of their professional duties.
Every day, more than 80 per cent of global trade by volume is transported by sea. Behind every shipment of food, medicine, fuel, raw materials and consumer goods are dedicated seafarers who work tirelessly, often under demanding conditions, to ensure the continuous movement of international commerce. While the world celebrates the arrival of goods at ports and markets, it is equally important to recognize the men and women whose commitment, professionalism and resilience make global trade possible.
Seafarers spend extended periods away from their families, navigate adverse weather conditions, manage operational and security risks, and perform critical responsibilities that keep the global supply chain functioning efficiently. Their unwavering dedication deserves not only recognition but also sustained efforts to safeguard their welfare, safety, health and dignity.
The Abuja MoU remains committed to promoting the effective implementation of international maritime conventions that protect seafarers and enhance maritime safety. Through harmonized Port State Control inspections, technical cooperation, capacity building and regional collaboration among its Member States, the Abuja MoU continues to contribute to safer ships, safer seas and better working and living conditions for seafarers throughout the West and Central African region.
As we commemorate the Day of the Seafarer, the Secretariat expresses its sincere appreciation to every seafarer for the invaluable contribution they make to international shipping and global economic development. Their professionalism, courage and sacrifice continue to keep world trade moving despite the many risks associated with life at sea.
Call for Submission of National Celebration Activities
To commemorate this important occasion, the Secretariat invites all Member States to share photographs, short videos and highlights of activities organized in their respective countries to celebrate the 2026 Day of the Seafarer.
The submissions will be featured on the Abuja MoU website and official social media platforms as part of an Event Diary showcasing the collective celebrations across the Abuja MoU region.
Member States are kindly requested to include:
* Name of Member State;
* Title of the event or activity;
* Date and venue;
* Brief captions describing each photograph or video.
The Secretariat looks forward to receiving submissions from all Member States and celebrating together the outstanding contribution of seafarers to safer shipping, sustainable trade and global prosperity.
Happy Day of the Seafarer 2026!
Theme: “Carrying World Trade. Carrying the Risks.”