As the Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN) clocks 20 years, stakeholders in the maritime sector of the economy and beyond have made a strong push for arbitration as the backbone of maritime dispute resolution in the country.
The stakeholders including those in the legal and regulatory ecosystem made this public when they converged at the Lagos Motor Boat Club, Ikoyi, Lagos recently to mark the two decades of MAAN establishment.
Besides jurists, maritime lawyers and industry leaders, the event also attracted high-level participation from the key maritime institutions such as the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
They were unanimous in their verdict that an efficient dispute resolution is critical to Nigeria’s ambition of becoming a maritime hub in the West and Central Africa Sub-regions.
The Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola in his keynote address emphasised the urgent need to shift from litigation to arbitration, citing cost, time inefficiencies and operational disruptions associated with court processes.
Mobereola who was represented at the event by Mrs. Aisha Idris Yakubu, disclosed that NIMASA is advancing plans to establish a dedicated Nigerian Maritime Arbitration Centre, aimed at providing specialised, sector-focused dispute resolution.
Drawing parallels with global best practices, he referenced the Singapore Maritime Arbitration Centre as a model, noting that Nigeria must develop similar institutional capacity to remain competitive.
The NIMASA helmsman also disclosed that a delegation from the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and NIMASA had undertaken a study visit to Singapore to understudy its arbitration framework.
His words: “NIMASA’s strategy is anchored on reducing dependence on litigation, promoting arbitration as the primary dispute resolution mechanism, and building institutional frameworks that can position Nigeria as a credible regional hub.”
Mobereola noted that collaboration among regulators, practitioners and professional bodies like MAAN is essential to achieving this goal.
On his part, the Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho underscored the strategic importance of arbitration in sustaining investor confidence and ensuring operational predictability in the ports.
He noted that with the scale and complexity of modern port operations, disputes are inevitable, making credible arbitration frameworks indispensable.
Dantsoho who was represented by Mr. Leonard Onoja Onoja reiterated NPA dual role as landlord and technical regulator of Nigeria’s ports just as he highlighted ongoing reforms including port modernisation, single window system, export processing terminals and investments in deep seaports.
According to him, these initiatives are designed to enhance efficiency, drive trade facilitation and position Nigeria competitively within the West and Central Africa Sub-regions.
He added that NPA has also invested in capacity building, particularly in arbitration and mediation training for its legal personnel, as part of its commitment to strengthening dispute resolution mechanisms.
Among other things, a colourful and insightful documentary to mark MAAN 20 years anniversary was shown to the delight of the attendees.
The Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Justice Olabode Rhodes-Vivour noted that over the years, MAAN had distinguished itself through resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to empowering professional men, women and students.
Continuing, the retired Justice of the Supreme Court (JSC) and a national award holder, Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) said: “From mentorship and capacity building to policy advocacy and industry engagement, MAAN has consistently demonstrated that when maritime arbitrators are given the opportunity to lead and contribute, the entire sector benefits.
“As we mark this 20th anniversary, we must also look ahead. The maritime industry is evolving rapidly, with new challenges and opportunities emerging in areas such as the blue economy, digital transformation, and sustainability. MAAN is well-positioned to not only adapt but to lead in shaping this future.”
Other highlights of the occasion was the presentation of a paper by the Founding President of MAAN, Mrs. Adedoyin Rhodes-Vivour, SAN and the Chairman of the Soirée Committee, Hon. Justice Folashade Bankole-Oki (retired) who chaired the Planning Committee who delivered a hearty welcome address to the delight of participants.
The President of MAAN, Chief Jean Chiazor Anishere, SAN in her closing remarks described the 20th anniversary as both a milestone and a mandate for greater impact.
Anishere used the occasion to reaffirmed MAAN commitment to deepening capacity, strengthening institutional credibility and advancing arbitration as a trusted mechanism for resolving maritime disputes.
MAAN’s 1st Soirée, initiated by Anishere was also unveiled at the event. According to her, it was an evening for members of MAAN to discuss topical issues, network and relax by the beautiful waterfront ambience.
It is on record that past MAAN Presidents, Advisory Board Members, Board of Trustees, Executive Council Members and practitioners were also present to celebrate the association’s two-decade legacy.
