The much-awaited book titled “Fifty Drivers of the Nigerian Maritime and Blue Economy”, written by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has been unveiled.
Described as a “landmark publication”, the book which is the rave of the moment in the maritime industry and beyond, celebrates individuals and institutions shaping Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy landscape.
The book which was unveiled Thursday in Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre, Lagos marked a major milestone in documenting the nation’s maritime evolution.
The event with the theme, “Driving the Blue Agenda: Recognizing Champions Steering Nigeria’s Marine Economy,” brought together industry stakeholders to honour innovators and reformers driving growth across the sector.
He stated that with proper harnessing, the sector possesses immense potentials for economic expansion and national development.
Ihenacho who is also the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Genesis Integrated Services Limited acknowledged the foundational contributions of past and present maritime leaders, tracing the sector’s evolution from the establishment of the National Shipping Line in 1959 to the birth of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in 2007.
“The book launch theme is carefully chosen to spotlight the individuals, institutions, and innovations driving the country’s marine and blue economy,” he said.
The Executive Secretary of Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr. Pius Ukeyima Akutah who was represented by Assistant Director of Operations, Mrs. Juliana Saka described the book as a significant milestone.
The NSC helmsman applauded MARAN for demonstrating vision and professionalism by documenting the contributions of key players in the sector.
His words: “The marine and blue economy offers vast opportunities requiring collaboration, innovation, data, and accountability. MARAN’s work strengthens public understanding, celebrates behind-the-scenes contributors, and elevates discourse shaping policy, investment, infrastructure, and sustainable maritime development.”
In his goodwill message, the former Executive Secretary and CEO, NSC, Mr. Hassan Bello described the celebration of those chronicled in the book as timely, given the sector’s over 60 years of steady progress.
Bello who succeeded in turning around the fortunes of NSC while in office noted that Nigeria’s maritime economy remains central to national growth.
“All generations must unite to support and preserve the sector, honour past contributors, and work together for continued success,” he said.
Former General Manager, SERVICOM, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mrs. Carol Ufere in her review of the book said the publication offers research-driven insights into ministries, agencies, industry leaders, reforms, and policy directions shaping Nigeria’s blue economy.
She also highlighted its focus on governance, innovation, digitalisation, security architecture, and institutional strengthening.
Ufere who was also a former Port Manager, Eastern Port, stated that the chapters examine NIMASA, NPA, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Railway Authority (NRC), and other critical institutions while showcasing achievements, challenges, and reforms needed to enhance competitiveness and sustainability.
The Chairman, MARAN Caretaker Committee, Pastor Tunde Ayodele in his welcome address said the launching of the book was organised to honour individuals and institutions whose service and vision have shaped Nigeria’s maritime trajectory.
Ayodele who has been a member of MARAN for more than a decade noted that the book not only documents their contributions but also reinforces ongoing efforts to advance the marine and blue economy.
He described the book launch as a historic moment for the maritime media community and the broader sector, expressing appreciation to all who attended.
His words: “Developed through extensive research, the book highlights outstanding leaders, private organisations and agencies whose collective efforts drive reforms, innovation, and sectoral growth. This first edition also recognises emerging talents and future contributors to the industry.”
