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Lagos is set to become the focal point of Africa’s maritime and blue economy discussions as industry leaders, policymakers, investors and professionals from across the globe gather for the 8th WISTA Africa Regional Conference scheduled for June 25 and 26, 2026.
Hosted by the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, the conference is expected to attract a high-profile audience drawn from the maritime, energy, logistics, finance, legal and public sectors for two days of strategic engagement, networking and policy dialogue.
Organised under the auspices of WISTA International, the conference comes at a critical period for Africa’s maritime industry as stakeholders confront emerging challenges and opportunities around energy transition, sustainability, trade competitiveness, digital innovation, taxation and inclusive economic growth.
The event also coincides with a significant milestone for WISTA Nigeria, which is celebrating 32 years of leadership and industry impact as the first National WISTA Association established on the African continent.
Speaking ahead of the conference, President of WISTA Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani, described the gathering as a strategic platform for shaping the future of Africa’s maritime and blue economy sectors.
“The 8th WISTA Africa Regional Conference represents more than a gathering of industry professionals; it is a platform for ideas, partnerships, innovation and action. As Africa strengthens its position in global trade and maritime development, this conference will spotlight emerging opportunities, promote regional collaboration and reinforce Nigeria’s strategic importance within the global maritime value chain,” she said.
According to the organisers, the conference will feature prominent speakers and industry leaders who will provide insights into some of the most pressing issues influencing the maritime ecosystem.
Discussions will focus on key themes including the African Blue Economy, Energy Transition and Sustainability, Maritime Trade and Investment Opportunities, Taxation, Innovation and Digital Transformation, Leadership, Diversity and Inclusion, as well as Shipping, Logistics and Supply Chain Resilience.
With participants expected from Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas, the conference is poised to deepen international cooperation while opening new opportunities for investment, partnerships and sustainable industry growth.
Beyond the conference sessions, delegates will participate in high-level networking engagements and business interactions designed to strengthen regional and global connections across the maritime value chain.
Observers say the hosting of the conference further reinforces Nigeria’s growing status as a strategic maritime hub and highlights the country’s commitment to advancing innovation, inclusion and sustainable development within the sector.
Founded in 1994, WISTA Nigeria is the Nigerian chapter of WISTA International, a global network of female professionals in the maritime, trading, logistics and offshore industries. As Africa’s first National WISTA Association, it remains at the forefront of promoting diversity, leadership and professional excellence in the maritime industry.
