The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) celebrated the 2024 International Day for Women in Maritime, highlighting the crucial role of Nigerian women in the maritime sector. The event, held in Lagos, was themed “Safe Horizons: Women Shaping the Future of Maritime Safety.”
Prominent associations participating in the event included the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA), Women in Maritime (WIMA), Women in Logistics and Transport (WILAT), and Women in Maritime West and Central Africa (WIMOWCA).
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) established this day to honor the resilience and contributions of women in the maritime industry. Dr. Dayo Mobereola, NIMASA’s Director General, represented by Jibril Abba, Executive Director of Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, commended the achievements of women in the industry.
“Let me seize this opportunity to recognize and applaud the incredible achievements of women in maritime. From seafarers and ship captains to engineers and port operators, as well as maritime professionals and trailblazers, women have played a pivotal role in shaping the maritime industry and driving innovation and progress. Their dedication, resilience, and expertise have not only enriched our industry but also inspire a future generation of women to pursue careers in maritime,” he stated.
Mobereola emphasized the importance of women’s contributions to the sector, urging continued efforts towards building a sustainable and inclusive maritime industry.
Mrs. Olamide Odusanya, NIMASA’s Director of Financial Services, lauded the IMO for fostering an inclusive environment that supports women’s recognition in line with Sustainable Development Goal 5, Gender Equality.
“It is clear the pivotal role of women in the maritime industry. Closing the gender gap, which is the SDG 5 – Gender Equality, has been an internal quest of women folks since the industrial revolution, and one significant achievement has been made; we still have a long way towards achieving relative parity,” she remarked.
Mrs. Gloria Anyasodo presented a paper on “Emerging Trends: Shaping the Future of Maritime Safety and Opportunities for Women,” highlighting the importance of competence through education and mutual support among women in the industry.
Goodwill messages were also delivered by Dr. Odunayo Ani, President of WISTA Nigeria; Mrs. Rollens MacFoy, President of African Women in Maritime, Nigeria chapter; Princess Margaret Inam of WiLAT; Barrister Oritsematosan Edodo-Emore, National President of WIMOWCA; and Hon. Olaitan Williams, President of Ocean Ambassadors Foundation.
The event concluded with the official inauguration of the WIMOWCA Nigeria chapter by NIMASA’s Director General.