The Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Government in the effective implementation of the newly launched National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement forum organized by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in Lagos, the President of WISTA Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani, described the policy as both “timely and visionary,” noting that it reflects the government’s strategic resolve to unlock the vast economic potential of Nigeria’s marine space.
Dr. Ani commended the Ministry for creating an inclusive platform that brings together key players from the public and private sectors, civil society, and the academic community. She emphasized that the National Policy offers a roadmap for sustainable ocean governance, economic diversification, environmental preservation, and job creation.
“As a key stakeholder in the maritime sector, WISTA Nigeria believes that strategic collaboration is indispensable to the successful implementation of this national blueprint,” she stated.
Highlighting the association’s core values, Dr. Ani reiterated WISTA Nigeria’s unwavering dedication to promoting gender equity, innovation, and capacity development within the marine and blue economy sector. She noted that women’s roles in the maritime industry must be recognized and strengthened for the policy to deliver its full impact.
“WISTA Nigeria stands ready to support this agenda through sustained advocacy, training, and strategic partnerships with government and industry actors,” she added.
The WISTA Nigeria President concluded by assuring the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and all stakeholders of the association’s continued partnership and commitment to ensuring the success of the policy. She stressed that with the right collaboration, Nigeria’s blue economy could become a catalyst for national prosperity and intergenerational growth.
The stakeholder forum brought together maritime experts, policymakers, business leaders, and development partners, all of whom expressed optimism about the opportunities the new policy presents for economic transformation and sustainability.