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The Oniru of Iru Kingdom, Oba Abdul-Wasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, Abisogun II, has confirmed his attendance at the 8th Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Africa Regional Conference and pledged the full support of his kingdom for the advancement of Nigeria’s maritime sector and blue economy.
The traditional ruler gave the assurance on Wednesday while receiving a WISTA-Nigeria delegation led by its President, Dr Odunayo Ani, during a courtesy visit to his palace in Lagos.
Oba Lawal commended Ani for her leadership and commitment to ensuring Nigeria hosts the regional conference, describing the event as a significant opportunity to showcase the country’s maritime achievements to the rest of Africa and the world.
He also praised the efforts of past WISTA leaders for laying a solid foundation for the association’s growth and relevance within the maritime industry.
The monarch said his support for WISTA was rooted in the long-standing maritime heritage of Iruland.
“My ancestors lived and thrived on water, and about 80 per cent of our traditional business remains connected to waterways,” he said.
According to him, the Iru Kingdom remains deeply connected to waterfront activities and will continue to champion initiatives that promote maritime development and the blue economy.
Oba Lawal noted that Bar Beach and other waterfront communities historically served as centres of trade, transportation and tourism, adding that the preservation and development of the maritime ecosystem remain priorities for the kingdom.
“The duty of the Oniru is to ensure the ocean and lagoon remain peaceful spiritually. Whatever happens on the waterfront, we receive our royalty. That is why we champion waterfront issues,” he said.
The monarch assured WISTA-Nigeria of his presence at the conference and pledged to mobilise local and international business leaders, as well as traditional rulers, to participate in the event.
“I will facilitate participation from foreign and local business people and encourage more royal fathers to attend,” he said.
Oba Lawal further pledged to partner WISTA-Nigeria in future business forums within Iruland to expose young people to opportunities in maritime operations, shipping and global trade.
He also called for stronger collaboration in developing the blue economy and improving access to opportunities for youths in coastal communities.
The monarch revealed that he had proposed the establishment of a Lagos Coastal Community Development Commission to address developmental challenges facing communities located along the state’s waterways.
Despite hosting major maritime assets such as the Dangote Refinery, Lekki Deep Sea Port, Apapa Port and Tin Can Island Port, he said many coastal communities were yet to feel the full economic benefits of those investments.
Earlier, Ani said the visit was to brief the monarch on preparations for the conference scheduled to hold from June 25 to 26, 2026, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos.
With the theme, “From Policy to Implementation: Women Advancing Africa’s Blue Economy,” she said the conference would bring together policymakers, investors, maritime leaders and professionals from across Africa and beyond.
Ani noted that delegates would also have the opportunity to experience Lagos’ rich maritime heritage and sought the monarch’s endorsement, blessings and participation in the event.
