President of the Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN), Chief Jean Chiazor Anishere, SAN, and the President of the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani, have called for stronger professional journalism and greater women’s leadership as Nigeria seeks to unlock the full potential of its maritime and blue economy.
They made their position known at the 2026 Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) annual maritime lecture (MAMAL) which took place at the Nigeria Air Force Conference Centre, Vitoria Island, Lagos rcntly.
While Anishere stressed the importance of an informed and independent maritime press in promoting accountability, transparency and sound policy discourse, Ani enjoined the government and industry players to move beyond inclusion by creating pathways for women to lead and influence decisions across the maritime sector.
Anishere who was represented at the event by Mrs. Oyeyemi Jimi-Salami, said MARAN had distinguished itself through responsible reportage and its continued engagements with issues affecting the maritime industry over the years.
The MAAN President described MAMAL as an important platform for industry stakeholders to examine emerging challenges, exchange ideas and develop practical solutions for Nigeria’s maritime sector.
According to her, the need for an informed and independent maritime media has become even more important as Nigeria seeks to unlock the economic opportunities of the Blue Economy.
The legal practitioner noted that while sound policies and effective regulation were essential to a vibrant maritime sector, the industry also requires a knowledgeable maritime press capable of informing the public, promoting transparency and holding stakeholders accountable.
She enjoined MARAN to continue using its platform to promote accountability, innovation and sustainable growth across the maritime industry, stressing that credible journalism remains important to building confidence and supporting informed decision-making.
On her part, Ani stressed that women must move beyond inclusion to take on greater roles in decision-making and industry transformation.
According to her, WISTA Nigeria will intensify mentorship, networking, advocacy and leadership initiatives to equip women. Government and industry players need to recruit, retain, promote and sponsor qualified women while adopting inclusive policies and measuring progress.
Ani also called for concerted efforts to dismantle discrimination, unequal access and unsafe workplace practices just as she enjoined male allies to mentor, sponsor and advocate for women.
She averred that women are not passengers in maritime development but are essential drivers of innovation, leadership and sustainable growth in Nigeria’s maritime industry.
