The Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria has successfully elected new executives as Dr. Odunayo Ani emerged President for a tenure of two years.
At the elections, which held at the association’s headquarters in Lagos on Thursday, a Deputy Director/ Head Revenue at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Odunayo Ani was elected as President.
The elections coincided with the expiration of the tenure of the immediate-past President, Mrs. Eunice Ezeoke, who completed her second tenure and handed over leadership reigns on behalf of her executive team.
Other elected executives include; Vice President – Captain Edidiong, Akpanebe Sola-Abalo,mni – Marine Coordinator/Pilot at SNEPCO; Secretary – Mrs Lillian Mac-Jaja Nnegi, Assistant Director, Cabotage Vessels Financing Fund/Cabotage Secretariat Division, NIMASA; Asst. Secretary- Mrs Oluwatoyin Oyeleke, Custom Broker/Rep, IFCBA, CRFFN.
The Public Relations Officer – Mrs. Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike, Director General, Nigerian Chamber of Shipping (NCS); Assistant PRO – Mrs Nneoma Obi-Asualo, Anchor & Producer Maritime Radar on News Central TV; Treasurer – Mrs. Hanna Adaba , Deputy Director , Shippers Council (NSC); and Assistant Treasurer – Mrs. Aisha Cole , Senior Editor News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
In her acceptance speech, the new WISTA Nigeria President, Dr. Ani, pledged to advance the mission and vision of the association in an environment where every member feels valued and empowered to contribute.
While thanking the association’s Board of Trustees, Diamonds, and esteemed members for the honour of being elected as the President, she said her leadership journey will be filled with optimism, determination, and a shared commitment to excellence.
Her words: “It is with immense appreciation that I address you, knowing full well the trust and confidence you have placed in me. First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you who participated in this election process.”
“Your engagement, support, and belief in the future of our association have been the cornerstone of our collective success. It is your dedication that fuels the spirit of innovation and progress within our community.”
Addressing fellow candidates who contested in the election, she described their commitment and willingness to serve as truly commendable, while promising to work as a team player drawing from their insights and expertise for the 2-year leadership journey.
She, however, noted that the association stands at a critical juncture, where decisions have to be made to shape the trajectory for years to come.
“We must navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving landscape, championing inclusivity, diversity, and excellence every step of the way. Our strength lies in our collective wisdom, and I am dedicated to ensuring that every voice is not only heard but also respected. Together, we will harness the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change and propel our association to new heights of success,” she added.
