Uche Cecil Izuora
The Mission to Seafarers (MtS) Lagos has honoured maritime heroes, highlighting their critical role in global trade under the theme “Peace in the Storm.”
This was the high point during a heartfelt celebration on Sea Sunday 2025 at the Church of the Resurrection, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The event brought together Nigerian and foreign seafarers, maritime stakeholders, and church members to reflect on the sacrifices and challenges faced by seafarers worldwide.
Chief Adebayo Sarumi, Chairman of MtS Lagos and former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, emphasized the indispensable contribution of seafarers, noting that over 90% of global trade depends on them. He pointed out that most goods Nigerians use daily come from abroad, delivered by these courageous men and women at sea. Sarumi highlighted the risks seafarers face, such as navigating through conflict zones like the missile-threatened Suez Canal, the Ukraine-Russia war, and the Gaza conflict, yet they remain committed to their duties for the sake of peace and trade continuity. He praised the Mission to Seafarers’ global network of over 200 centers in 50 countries, which provide vital welfare services including rest, communication, meals, and shelter for distressed seafarers.
The Vicar of the Church of the Resurrection, Venerable Tunde Oduwole, delivered the sermon drawing from the biblical story of Jesus calming the storm, reminding seafarers that God’s peace is available even amid life’s fiercest challenges. He reassured them that although physically distant from land and loved ones, they are never far from God’s presence. He also commended the Mission to Seafarers and encouraged the congregation to support the organization through prayers, time, and resources, emphasizing the powerful impact of small acts of kindness.
Engr. Emmanuel Ilori, Assistant Chaplain of MtS Lagos and a former seafarer, shared a poignant personal experience of returning home after six months at sea to find his baby unable to recognize him, illustrating the emotional toll of long voyages. He also recounted the hardships faced navigating stormy seas, expressing deep respect for seafarers’ dedication and thanking those who attended the service. Engr. Zainab Ayomide, a seafarer, reflected on the immense challenges of life at sea but found comfort in the belief that they are never far from God despite physical isolation.
Mrs. Yetunde Akinluyi, a member of the MtS Lagos management team, noted the strong participation in the 2025 Sea Sunday, including seafarers joining remotely from ships, and highlighted the positive impact of the MtS Lagos Centre, especially following its recent transformation by the Nigerian Ports Authority. The center continues to be a crucial support hub for seafarers in the region.
Overall, the Sea Sunday event in Lagos was a powerful tribute to maritime workers, calling for greater awareness, prayers, and practical support for seafarers who face dangerous and lonely conditions to keep the world’s economy moving.