… says our greatest asset is our people
President of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani, has called for deliberate investment in human capital as Nigeria’s strongest lever to become Africa’s maritime hub.
Speaking at the 10th Anniversary of the Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime Conference hosted by the University of Lagos, Ani said Nigeria’s geography and resources mean little without a skilled generation to drive them.
“Nigeria has all the fundamentals to lead Africa’s blue economy. We are strategically located, blessed with an extensive coastline, vibrant ports, inland waterways, and abundant marine resources. However, our greatest competitive advantage is not our geography – it is our people”, she stated.
With the conference themed “Ten Tides of Impact: Raising a Generation to Position Nigeria as Africa’s Blue Giant”, Ani said the focus on people was timely.
“If Nigeria is to realise its full maritime potential, we must intentionally develop the human capital that will drive innovation, improve competitiveness, and provide the leadership needed for a rapidly changing global maritime industry”, Ani said.
She outlined WISTA Nigeria’s role in building that future through mentorship, leadership development, capacity-building and advocacy.
“At WISTA Nigeria, we believe that building the future of the maritime industry requires deliberate investment in people. Our mission is to promote diversity, inclusion, and professional excellence while creating opportunities for women to contribute meaningfully across shipping, ports, logistics, marine services, energy, maritime law, finance, and the wider blue economy”, Ani noted.
Citing rapid changes from digitalisation, automation, AI and decarbonisation, she urged collaboration between academia, industry and government.
“The demand for new skills has never been greater. Our educational institutions, industry leaders, and professional associations must work together to ensure that young Nigerians are equipped with the knowledge, practical experience, and leadership capacity required to compete globally”, she said.
To students and young professionals, her charge was direct: “Seek knowledge, embrace innovation, find mentors, and never stop learning. The future of Nigeria’s maritime industry will be shaped by those who are prepared to lead with competence, integrity, and vision”.
Ani congratulated the University of Lagos and SIFAX Group for 10 years of impact, adding that WISTA Nigeria remains committed to advancing policies, building capacity, empowering future leaders, and promoting sustainable growth.
“Together, let us continue raising a generation that will confidently position Nigeria as Africa’s Blue Giant”, she concluded.
Ani was appreciated with a recognition award by the organisers of TAAM.