Sanni Marvelous
The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has urged the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association to take the lead in building capacity and driving innovation across Nigeria’s maritime industry.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Fatima Sugra Tabi’a Mahmood, made the call during an engagement with members of the association in Abuja recently, where she stressed the need for a more strategic and self-driven approach to professional development within the sector.
Mahmood noted that while the Ministry would continue to provide institutional backing within its available resources, WISTA must take ownership of its growth and agenda. She challenged women in the maritime space to move beyond calls for inclusion based on sentiment and instead demonstrate value through competence and results.
“Women shouldn’t be asking for space based on sentiment, but instead should prove their worth through excellence and expertise,” she said.
She encouraged the association to leverage global platforms such as the Commission on the Status of Women to amplify its voice and influence.
To remain competitive in a rapidly evolving blue economy, Mahmood advised WISTA Nigeria to adopt consistent capacity-building initiatives, including the use of webinars and other digital platforms. She also urged the group to shift focus from small-scale, sponsorship-driven events to larger, investment-attracting projects capable of delivering measurable impact.
The Permanent Secretary highlighted the importance of developing reliable data to identify gaps and strengthen women’s participation across maritime value chains. She also called for better use of media platforms to showcase achievements and deepen visibility.
According to her, the formation of specialised sub-committees and stronger professional networks would position WISTA as a critical stakeholder in Nigeria’s maritime revitalisation efforts.
Abuja Branch Coordinator of WISTA, Edith Osuji Obi, said the visit was to formally welcome the Permanent Secretary and brief her on the association’s activities and objectives.
She also informed the Ministry of the upcoming 8th WISTA Africa Regional Conference scheduled to hold in Lagos, extending an invitation to Mahmood to attend.
