Navigating Success: Funmi’s Inspiring Career And Mentorship Strides At NPA
By Victoria Adonye Ibiama
Let’s embark on a voyage through the illustrious career of a maritime industry leader, a Principal Manager & Head of SERVICOM at Calabar port, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mrs. Funmilayo Omowumi Loremikan.
Funmi recently celebrated 30 years in service at the NPA. Her career has been characterized by unwavering commitment to excellence. Her story can serve as a mentorship guide for younger officials at NPA and anyone who hopes to attain success in any careerpath.
In this interview with News Diet, Funmi speaks on her journey from humble beginnings to pioneering efforts in challenging the status quo. It is a narrative encapsulates the dedication, resilience, and vision required to navigate the complex waters of professional advancement.
Enjoy it:
Congratulations on attaining 30 years of service at Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). Tell us about the journey!
Presently, I serve as the Principal Manager and Head of the Servicom Department at the NPA, stationed at the Calabar port. Commencing my tenure on the 8th of March in 1994, this year commemorates my three decades of dedicated service. Throughout my tenure, I have contributed my expertise to two pivotal departments within the organization.
Initially, my responsibilities were within the Tariff and Billing department, where I garnered 25 years of invaluable experience in ship billing and related services. In 2018, I transitioned to the Servicom Department, where I currently oversee customer complaint resolution, service delivery enhancement, and continuous service refinement.
In addition to my roles within the NPA, I served as a Personal Assistant to the Port Manager at the Lagos Sport Complex from 2008 to 2010. Notably, in 2002, I was honored with the distinction of being named the Best Officer of the Month within the Tariff and Billing department.
A pivotal moment in my career occurred in 2018 when I took a stand against entrenched practices regarding training program nominations. During a town hall meeting led by the then-Managing Director, Hadiza Bala Usman, I voiced concerns regarding the nomination process, sparking significant organizational change. Despite encountering obstacles, I remain steadfast in my commitment to challenging the status quo.
Professionally, I am a distinguished member of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT). In 2022, I vied for the position of Deputy National President, marking a historic endeavor as the first female candidate. Despite facing opposition and subsequent sanctions, I remain resolute in my dedication to professional development and advocacy.
My career philosophy revolves around setting and achieving goals while fostering a strong online and offline presence. I advocate for continuous learning, active participation in industry events, and strategic networking. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of mentorship in guiding career trajectories and fostering professional growth.
For aspiring professionals, particularly women entering male-dominated industries like maritime, I advocate for setting clear career objectives, active involvement in relevant professional associations, and unwavering self-confidence. I encourage financial investment in personal and professional development, underlining the significance of proactive goal setting and pursuit.
As I approach retirement in 2025, I aspire to ascend to the role of General Manager within the NPA. Beyond my organizational aspirations, I am committed to acquiring additional coaching certifications, expanding my speaking engagements, and transitioning into a leadership coaching role upon retirement.
For the young Professionals, If you’re passionate about your career and strive for excellence, it’s essential to choose a profession that offers profitability, relevance, and marketability. Researching pertinent areas within maritime, transportation, logistics, and supply chain management is crucial. Consider pursuing online or short courses to stay current and enhance your skills.
Don’t hesitate to explore different job opportunities, especially if your current role doesn’t align with your passion. Embrace change and pursue your dream job relentlessly.
For further insights into my professional journey and expertise, I invite you to explore my LinkedIn portfolio
