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The President of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Dr. (Mrs.) Odunayo B. Ani has received the Maritime Woman of the Year 2026 at the 5th Annual Lecture and Awards of Primetime Reporters.
Speaking at the event where she also urged Nigeria to make its ports smarter, faster and cleaner, Ani expressed delight at the honour to receive the award.
The event, which brought together policymakers, regulators and industry leaders, had a key lecture under the theme “Smarter Gateways, Greener Logistics: Leveraging Port Community System and National Single Window for Zero-Emission Trade.”
Ani, in her remarks, said the theme “speaks to the direction in which our maritime industry must continue to move.” For Nigeria to compete in global trade, she argued, its ports “must become more connected, efficient and responsive.”
Ani pointed to the Port Community System and the National Single Window as the tools to get there.
Effective implementation, she said, offers an opportunity to improve coordination among stakeholders, simplify processes, strengthen information sharing, and reduce the delays and costs associated with cargo movement. Those gains would also support a more sustainable and environmentally responsible maritime sector.
She also commended Primetime Reporters for sustaining a platform that encourages informed conversation on industry issues while recognising individuals who contribute to its growth.
“A thriving maritime sector requires both constructive scrutiny and the encouragement of those who are making a positive difference,” she said.
Turning to her award, Ani described herself as “truly delighted and deeply grateful.”
She said she received the honour “with joy and humility,” mindful of the many people who had encouraged, supported and inspired her journey in the maritime sector.
Dr. Ani also dedicated the moment to other women in the industry. “I also share this moment with the women who continue to break barriers, contribute their expertise and create new possibilities for others in our industry,” she said.
The recognition, she added, “encourages me to keep giving my best to the sector I care so deeply about.
