Preparation is in top gear for the second edition of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) Annual Maritime Lecture (MAMAL) series.
MAMAL serves as a knowledge-sharing platform aimed at addressing critical issues in the maritime and trade sectors in the African continent.
Maritime Bits had reported that its maiden edition which took place in a highbrow hotel in the Lagos State capital, Ikeja was a huge success as the immediate past Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Jaji Sambo was personally present to chair the occasion.
Also present were key stakeholders in the maritime industry including the former Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Ade Dosunmu.
Dosunmu who was prior to his appointment was NIMASA Executive Director, Finance and Administration was one of the special guests of honour at the occasion.
Scheduled to take place on November 21, 2024, in Lagos, the lecture with the theme “AfCFTA: Dismantling Trade Barriers and Navigating Regional Trade” is expected to address the critical role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in boosting regional trade, overcoming barriers, and unlocking new economic opportunities across the continent.
The organizer in a statement made available to Maritime Bits said MAMAL is a flagship event designed to foster dialogue, share insights, and provide a platform for key stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime and trade sectors.
According to the statement signed by the 2024 Chairman of MAMAL, Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde, the conference will gather industry experts, government officials, trade professionals, and maritime stakeholders to explore the evolving challenges and opportunities within the context of AfCFTA’s implementation.
Continuing, Onigbinde said: “As Africa moves towards the full implementation of the AfCFTA, there is an urgent need to address the persistent trade barriers hindering the region’s economic integration. This lecture aims to provide deep insights into these barriers and explore actionable solutions that will not only strengthen intra-African trade but also position Nigeria as a major hub in this evolving landscape.”
He maintained that the lecture promises to feature a line-up of renowned speakers from the maritime, trade, and economic sectors, who will offer their expertise on topics such as the impact of AfCFTA on regional trade routes, port infrastructure development, regulatory harmonization, and the future of shipping in Africa.
According to him, MARAN invites all maritime and trade stakeholders, professionals, and the public to participate in this pivotal discussion. More details on the speakers, venue, and registration will be announced in the coming weeks.
He explained that those who need further information on MAMAL can do so through its e-mail address maranreporters@gmail.com or telephone numbers +234(07064845281) and +234( 802 305 8754)
Established over three decades ago, MARAN remains the umbrella body for journalists covering the maritime sector of the economy. It is committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and the growth of Nigeria’s maritime sector through timely, in-depth, and insightful reportage.
