By Thaddeus Udofia
It is my pleasure and honour to extend warm greetings and goodwill, on behalf of the Director-General of the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) to the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) on the occasion of the 4th Edition of its annual lecture. We commend MARAN for sustaining this important platform for informed discourse on critical issues affecting Nigeria’s maritime industry. The theme, “Nigerian Port Modernisation, Charges and the Competitiveness Question,” is timely and central to the aspiration of making our ports efficient, attractive and globally competitive
As an institute committed to capacity building, professional development and policy advocacy in the maritime sector, IMION recognizes that sustainable port modernization goes beyond physical infrastructure. It requires skilled and competent manpower, innovative technology, efficient processes, sound regulatory frameworks and policies that promote ease of doing business. Equally important is the need to ensure that port charges are transparent, competitive and aligned with the quality of services provided.
I therefore commend MARAN for bringing these issues to the forefront of national conversation. Effective policy advocacy must be supported by credible information, research and constructive engagement among government, regulators, port operators and other industry stakeholders. The maritime media has a vital role in this regard by promoting informed public discourse, accountability and greater understanding of the reforms required to strengthen Nigeria’s position as a preferred maritime huh
On behalf of the Director-General and the entire team of IMION, I wish MARAN a successful and impactful 4th annual lecture. We are confident that the deliberations will generate practical recommendations capable of supporting port efficiency, reducing avoidable costs and enhancing Nigeria’s maritime competitiveness. We reaffirm IMION’s commitment to partnering with relevant stakeholders in capacity development, policy advocacy and knowledge-driven initiatives that will contribute to the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s maritime industry. I wish all participants fruitful deliberations and a successful outcome.
*Being excerpts of goodwill message presented by the Director General, International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION), Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia at the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) annual maritime lecture (MAMAL) 2026 edition at Nigeria Air Force (NAF) Conference Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos…recently.
