By Tunde Ojudun
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reaffirmed its commitment to gender inclusion in the maritime sector, emphasizing that sustainable progress requires the contributions of both men and women.
Delivering the keynote address at NIMASA’s International Women’s Day 2026 celebration in Lagos, Director General Dr. Dayo Mobereola highlighted the vast opportunities within the maritime industry and the Agency’s vision to support more women in building careers and leadership roles.
“Men cannot exist without women, and the maritime industry can only achieve sustainable growth when both genders contribute meaningfully,” Dr. Mobereola stated.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Odunayo Ani, NIMASA’s Director of Financial Services and President of the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, underscored the growing influence of women in maritime and the importance of inclusive leadership. She called for stronger partnerships and collaboration to expand opportunities for women across the sector.
The event featured goodwill messages from women-focused maritime organizations, including WISTA Nigeria, Women in Maritime Africa (WIMA), Women in Maritime of West and Central Africa (WIMOWCA), and Women in Logistics and Transport (WILAT). Speakers emphasized mentorship, capacity building, and regional collaboration as key to empowering women leaders.
Guest speaker Dr. Titilayo Enitan-Fowokan delivered a presentation on “Navigating Nigeria’s Tax Reform: Opportunities for Women in Shipping and Global Trade”, encouraging women to strategically position themselves to leverage emerging opportunities in the evolving economic landscape.
The celebration brought together female professionals, seafarers, and industry leaders, reinforcing NIMASA’s role as a champion of gender inclusion in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
PHOTO: From right: Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola (middle); President, Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association, WISTA, Dr. Odunayo (3rd left); President, Women in Maritime Africa, Theodora Nwaeze (3rd right) with female seafarers during the 2026 International Women’s Day Celebration by NIMASA in Lagos.