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Efforts to strengthen women’s participation in Nigeria’s maritime industry received a major boost this week as the President of the Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN), Jean Chiazor Anishere SAN, commended the leadership of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for championing inclusivity and professional advancement for women across the sector.
Speaking during the agency’s celebration of International Women’s Day 2026 in Lagos, Anishere described the current leadership of the Nigeria’s Alex maritime regulator as a driving force behind the renewed push to empower women within the industry.
The event, themed “Give To Gain,” brought together maritime professionals, regulators, legal experts, and industry stakeholders at Orchid Hall of the Eko Hotel & Suites, where discussions centred on gender inclusion and the growing role of women in Nigeria’s blue economy.
In her remarks, Anishere praised the vision and commitment of the agency’s leadership, under Dr. Dayo Mobereola as Director General, noting that deliberate policies and institutional support have created opportunities for women to thrive in a sector traditionally dominated by men.
According to her, his leadership approach has helped open doors for women across several maritime disciplines including administration, shipping, maritime law, arbitration, and other allied services.
“Your visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to inclusivity within Nigeria’s maritime domain deserve the highest commendation,” she said while addressing the gathering.
Anishere noted that the agency’s efforts have gone beyond symbolic gestures, stressing that practical initiatives aimed at capacity building and professional development are already producing measurable results.
She observed that by encouraging the participation of women and amplifying their voices within the maritime ecosystem, the agency has laid a stronger foundation for a more balanced and progressive industry.
The MAAN President further emphasised that recognising the value women bring to maritime governance and commercial operations reflects a leadership philosophy anchored on equity, foresight and national development.
She added that such initiatives are vital for the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy and for strengthening institutional frameworks across the maritime value chain.
Industry stakeholders at the event agreed that the increased visibility of women in leadership roles within maritime institutions is gradually reshaping perceptions and inspiring a new generation of professionals to pursue careers in the sector.
Observers noted that programmes such as the International Women’s Day celebration organised by NIMASA provide a strategic platform for mentoring, networking and policy dialogue on gender inclusion.
Following the event, the maritime regulator formally expressed its appreciation to Anishere for her presence and contributions during the celebration.
In an appreciation letter issued by the agency, NIMASA described her participation as one of the highlights of the programme.
The letter acknowledged that her attendance added immense value to the gathering and helped make the occasion both memorable and impactful.
The agency also commended the MAAN President for the energy and passion she displayed while delivering her remarks about the leadership of the organisation.
According to the statement, her words resonated strongly with participants and sparked a moment of inspiration that electrified the audience.
NIMASA noted that beyond her professional standing as President of MAAN and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, her voice and perspective contributed significantly to the spirit of solidarity that defined the event.
The agency further stated that her speech ignited enthusiasm across the hall and left many attendees deeply moved.
Officials described the moment as one that would remain memorable for participants long after the event.
NIMASA also reiterated its commitment to sustained collaboration with key industry stakeholders and professional bodies in advancing the cause of women within Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The agency expressed optimism that partnerships with organisations such as MAAN would continue to promote professional growth, knowledge exchange and opportunities for women seeking to excel in maritime practice.
