Maritime Agencies
MAMAL 2025: Ogbeifun Salutes President Tinubu on the new Marine Ministry, Tasks MARAN To Follow Up Her Resolutions
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Engr Greg Ogbeifun, Chairman, Starzs Investments Company Ltd has expressed excitement over the establishment of a separate ministry to superintend over and pay closer attention to the huge potentials in the Marine sector.
He was speaking in Lagos, Wednesday, at the third edition of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) annual lecture tagged ‘MAMAL 2025’. Recalling the consistent advocacy in this regard by him and other concerned stakeholders especially when he functioned as the pioneer President of the Shipowners Association of Nigeria (SOAN), he hailed President Tinubu for harkening to the voice of reason by establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
Ogbeifun who chaired the event with the theme ‘Addressing the Burden of War Risk Insurance on Nigeria’s Maritime Trade,’ gleefully announced his return from retirement following the creation of the new ministry to enable him continue his invaluable contributions to the sector.
Talking about war risk insurance premium on Nigeria’s maritime trade, he expressed deep concern about the absence of Nigerian-owned vessels among those visiting the ports and paying the controversial premium.
He queried: Where is the fleet representing Nigerian identity and interests in the comity of vessels that visit Nigerian ports?
”Let’s get up and be the ones carrying our cargoes globally in our own ships,” he insisted.
”We must take our destiny in our own hands, participate in shipping and be able to lend our voice in determining war risk insurance issues
.”
He cautioned that going forward, MAMAL and similar industry gatherings must not be mere talk shops. Serious resolutions and agreements adopted must be presented to government for consideration in moving the sector forward. MARAN should constitute an implementation team to follow up with the authorities on the measurable outcomes and this should be the fulcrum of discussions in the following year.
By next year when another edition of MAMAL would be hosted, he advised, MARAN should be able to present current statistics on the status of the war risk insurance issue on the nation’s maritime domain based on discussions and resolutions the previous year.
There should be collaboration with relevant organs of government and other stakeholders to effectively see what needs to be done to move to the next stage in discussing war risk insurance premium.
Also speaking at the occasion, Barrister Temisan Omatseye, former Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) expressed dissatisfaction that the Joint War Risk Committee in London is charging a zero point two five percent on every vessel that gets five degrees east of the Lagos harbour, which means that, anytime a vessel enters the area towards Delta, Port Harcourt or Bakassi, there is a fee being charged and that fee goes up to zero point six five percent whilst in Pakistan, where there is serious attacks, only zero point two five percent is charged.
The reason for this, according to him, is that Nigeria had lost her eyes “on the ball”.
For now, Omatseye noted, Nigeria is the centre of attractions to the world with the Dangote Refinery producing thousands of barrels of petroleum products daily. With the BUA Refinery, the upcoming one in Ogun State plus other modular refineries which would produce for exports purposes, Nigeria is going to be a net exporter of petroleum products to the world and there is the need to adequately find lasting solutions to the lingering issues of war risk insurance premium on Nigerian importers and exporters.
In his goodwill message, the current Director General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, represented by the Deputy Director, Reformed Coordinator Deep Blue Economy, Mr Victor Iloh, commended MARAN for bringing the topical issue to the fore, as it has become a problem bothering on national security and trade policies.
He explained that Nigeria’s statutory geographical position in the Gulf of Guinea, exposes her to maritime insecurity driven by piracy, armed robbery attacks and geographical conflicts, leading to the imposition of war risk insurance premium.
Significant progress has however been made in securing the nation’s maritime domain with no recorded incident in the last four years which he noted, has been attributed to Nigeria’s integrated maritime security architecture, known as “The Deep Blue Project”, which was inaugurated in 2021 and the deployment of Maritime Assets on both land, sea, air and intelligence, to secure the Nigerian waters. This led to the enactment of the Suppression of Piracy and other related Maritime Offences “SPROMO Act” in 2019 and since 2020, two major convictions of pirates have been secured by the Federal High Court.
According to the NIMASA DG, Nigeria’s maritime security safety led to her being de-listed by the International Maritime Bureau from the list of piracy- prone zones in 2021 and the commendations of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) re – enforced the achievements.
He also stated that the IMB Forum removed Nigeria’s name as a high risk maritime zone in 2023 while constant collaboration with other maritime regional bodies had contributed significantly towards reducing piracy in the Gulf of Guinea waters.
Despite all these recorded milestones of improved maritime security, he stated, the impact of war risk premium on the Nigerian economy has continued to be enormous.
” It sounded regrettable that Nigerian Importers and Exporters have paid over five billion dollars worth of war risk insurance premium over the last three years.”
He placed on record that in addressing the problem, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Chief Adegboyega Oyetola and the Management of NIMASA had held diplomatic and stakeholders engagement with the Chattam House, FIMCO and other developments partners such as the Danish Government and the IMO towards discussing the strategic milestones recorded by Nigeria in driving maritime security and the need to leverage on those to remove the war risk insurance premium on Nigeria-bound cargoes.
While these engagements are still ongoing, the main focus is still on sustaining the recorded milestones.
The NIMASA boss said the call for the removal of war risk insurance premium is a collective action that must not be left for the government alone. All relevant stakeholders must be prepared to enhance their ability to understand the security threats as that would protect seafarers and promote safe and secure maritime operations.
Continuous engagement is the way to go, Dr Mobereola advised, until the much- desired results are achieved. He commended MARAN and the esteemed participants for such a great event which is hosted to discuss a major contributor to the high cost of goods which end up in individual homes.
Other goodwill messages came from the Executive Secretary of the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding, MOU, Captain Sunday Umoren and the President of the African Shipowners Association, Captain Adebowale others.
In his remarks, Frank Ogunojemite, President, African Association of Professional Licenced Agents, dwelt on the continuous surcharge of seven percent on cargoes at the ports and asked the Minister’s representative, Dr Bolaji Akinola to convey his concerns.
Maritime Agencies
Maritime Industry Bigwigs Pledge to Attend the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) Unity Conference.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
As the Network of Nigeria Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) unveils “Seaport Modernisation, Trade Facilitation and Revenue” as the theme of her unification conference scheduled for November 13 in Lagos , several prominent personalities in Nigeria’s maritime industry and political landscape have indicated interest to attend.
These include the former Minister of Interior, Capt. Emmanuel Iheanacho; Senator Wasiu Eshilokun; former President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Dr. Eugene Nweke; and Dr. Kayode Farinto, former Acting National President of ANLCA.
Also participating are key policymakers, heads of maritime agencies, industry leaders, legal practitioners, freight forwarders and other critical stakeholders whose voices cannot be ignored while deliberating on the future of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Barrister Temisan Omatseye, will chair the conference, while the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, will attend as Special Guest of Honour.
Renowned maritime lawyer, Barrister Emeka Akabogu, SAN, will deliver the keynote address at the event which takes place at Airport Hotel, Ikeja.
Discussions will particularly focus on ongoing reforms, infrastructure development and strategic interventions required to strengthen the maritime industry’s contribution to national economic growth.
According to Elder Dele Aderibigbe and Jerry Aguigbo, the NNMJ President and Public Relations Officer respectively, the conference will provide an avenue for constructive engagement among government representatives, maritime professionals and private-sector operators on practical measures to reposition Nigeria’s maritime industry for improved efficiency, productivity and global competitiveness.
Seaport modernisation, rehabilitation and renewal of critical port infrastructure, trade facilitation, ease of doing business, revenue optimisation and strategies for identifying and eliminating financial leakages across the maritime value chain will form key discussion points at the Unity Conference.
Participants will also examine opportunities for expanding Nigeria’s marine and blue economy, generating employment, strengthening maritime safety and security, and enhancing the competitiveness of the nation’s seaports.
The conference is expected to attract heads of government agencies, managing directors of shipping companies, terminal operators, freight forwarders, licensed customs agents and other influential stakeholders across the maritime industry.
The Unity Conference also avails stakeholders opportunity to evaluate existing government policies and reforms, identify implementation gaps and recommend sustainable solutions to improve port operations, facilitate legitimate trade, increase government revenue and unlock the vast economic potentials of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The organizers further underscored the strategic importance of maritime journalism in promoting transparency and accountability, providing credible industry analysis and sustaining informed public discourse on government policies, regulatory interventions and reforms affecting the marine and blue economy.
The NNMJ leadership expressed confidence that the conference would strengthen relationships among industry stakeholders, encourage meaningful policy engagement and reinforce collective efforts towards building a more efficient, transparent and globally competitive maritime industry.
Maritime Agencies
AMANO Advocates Rapid Growth in Nigeria’s Maritime Sector, Holds National Convention
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
As the 2026 National Convention and Stakeholders’ engagement of the Alumni of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron (AMANO) kicks off November 12 – 14, the
body has called for accelerated reforms and development in Nigeria’s maritime capacity training sector to ensure job creation for graduating cadets.
The convention will bring together maritime professionals, policymakers, regulators and shipowners, academics, cadets and other stakeholders for high-level deliberations on the future of the industry.
Speaking during a pre-event briefing in Lagos, Saturday, AMANO President, Mr. Emmanuel Maiguwa described the conference as a platform for policy alignment, innovation and practical solutions as it is more than a re+union of alumni.
This year’s convention, Maiguwa explained, is deliberately focused on moving from talk to action — with emphasis on reforms that can be implemented in maritime education, shipping, port operations, safety and blue economy development.
The convention will also provide an opportunity to introduce newly graduated cadets of MAN, Oron and their lecturers to maritime companies, institutions and stakeholders thus expanding their exposure to professional and employment opportunities.
Maiguwa had at the Academy’s 2026 Cadets Passing-Out Parade last week, urged graduands to embrace networking, professional development and mentorship as essential tools for building successful careers and invited them to the Lagos convention.
As part of its commitment to excellence, AMANO also announced cash awards of ₦150,000 each for Best HND Graduating Cadet and Best ND Graduating Cadet.
Stakeholders say the 2026 convention is coming at a critical time when Nigeria is pushing to unlock its blue economy, modernise its ports, strengthen its participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and translate maritime policies into measurable results.
The three-day event is expected to feature keynote addresses, panel sessions, technical workshops, exhibitions and networking sessions, with recommendations to be presented to government and industry for implementation.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The Nigeria Association of Women in Journalism (NAWOJ), Lagos Chapter has honoured veteran journalist, Hajia Hadiza Omowole, as Iconic Woman of the month for November.
This is contained in a release in Lagos jointly signed by Mrs Jumoke Falayi-Johnson and Mrs Anu Thomas, NAWOJ Chairperson and Secretary respectively.
Falayi-Johnson described Omowole as a true beacon of excellence, resilience and compassionate leadership, noting her selfless dedication to mentoring young journalists, empowering grassroots women and advocating gender equity..
Omowole’s tenacity, she stated, dedication to service and visionary leadership beautify the world. She described her as Mother-General whose pioneering spirit leaves indelible mark on journalism profession and society generally.
”Omowole holds Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Anthropology from University of Benin and Master’s in Media, Culture and Technology from University of Bedfordshire, UK, spanning over three-decade distinguished journalism career.
”The veteran journalist joined News Agency of Nigeria in 1992, rising steadily through editorial ranks serving as Senior Editor, Deputy Editor-in-Chief and now Managing Editor and Head of Lagos Operations,” Falayi-Johnson said.
She noted that beyond editorial leadership, Omowole served two historic terms as National President of NAWOJ from 2014 to 2020, becoming first president re-elected, championing welfare and advancement of women journalists nationwide.
Through community specialist work, counselling and initiatives supporting rural and needy women, Omowole continues to serve as an inspiring pillar of guidance for the association and media industry.
The entire NAWOJ Lagos family celebrates Omowole’s unwavering commitment, pioneering spirit and incredible service to humanity, collectively wishing her more success in journalism, leadership and humanitarian endeavours ahead.
Omowole remained actively involved in institutional engagement, public communication, youth development and advocacy for health, child development and gender equality across Nigeria.
In her remarks, NAWOJ Lagos Secretary, Mrs Anu Thomas, noted that the association proudly recognised outstanding contributions of Omowole to journalism, women empowerment and leadership development in Nigerian media landscape.
Falayi-Johnson reiterated association’s pride in celebrating Omowole, describing her enduring legacy as an inspiration for upcoming female journalists and a testament to excellence in media leadership nationwide.
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OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP: NAWOJ Lagos Honours Omowole, NAN’s Managing Editor.
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoOUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP: NAWOJ Lagos Honours Omowole, NAN’s Managing Editor.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks ago2026 World Maritime Day: Nigeria Subscribes to Safer Waterways and Excellence.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoDredgers’ Body Disowns Report Alleging Extortion Against Lagos Commissioner Alebiosu, Cardoso.
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoCustoms FOU Zone ‘A’ Hits Smugglers Hard, Confiscates 23, 220 Matchettes, Other Contrabands Worth over N6.19bn.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoOyetola, Omatseye, Akabogu, Other Dignitaries To Attend Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists Unity Conference in Lagos.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoSCAN SUMMIT, 2026: Conversion to Earn Higher Interest Rates, the Bane of the CVFF, Omatseye says.
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Maritime Agencies5 days agoAMANO Advocates Rapid Growth in Nigeria’s Maritime Sector, Holds National Convention
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Maritime Agencies5 days ago
Maritime Industry Bigwigs Pledge to Attend the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) Unity Conference.