MARAN unveils book to celebrate individuals, institutions shaping maritime landscape

MARAN unveils book to celebrate individuals, institutions shaping maritime landscape

 

The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) MARAN has launched a landmark publication to highlight notable individuals and institutions shaping Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The publication, “Fifty Drivers of the Nigerian Maritime and Blue Economy’, is a tribute to innovators, reformers and institutions advancing Nigeria maritime growth.

The book launch with the theme,’ Driving the Blue Agenda; Recognizing Champions Steering Nigeria’s Marine Economy’, was held on Thursday in Lagos.

In his address, Former Minister of Interior, Capt. Emmanuel Ihenacho who served as the Chairman of the Book Launch, described Nigeria’s maritime industry as a “vital component” of the national economy.

He noted that the industry had the capacity to generate enormous growth and development if properly harnessed.

“The Book Launch theme is carefully chosen to spotlight the individuals, institutions, and innovations driving the country’s Marine and Blue Economy,” he said.

Ihenacho commended the contributions of past and present maritime leaders whose efforts, laid the foundation for the sector’s evolution.

“This is from the establishment of the National Shipping Line in 1959, the National Maritime Authority in 1988, to the creation of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in 2007,” he said.

The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), Mr Pius Ukeyima, said today’s launch of marks a major milestone.

Ukeyima represented by Mrs Juliana Saka, an Assistant Director at NSC, said that MARAN’s vision and professionalism in documenting contributors to national maritime growth deserve commendation and broad industry appreciation.

“The marine and blue economy offers vast opportunities requiring collaboration, innovation, data, and accountability.

“MARAN’s work strengthens public understanding, celebrates behind-the-scenes contributors, and elevates discourse shaping policy, investment, infrastructure, and sustainable maritime development,” he said.

Mr Hassan Bello, former Executive Secretary, NSC, noted that the maritime sector’s long-standing achievements make this celebration significant, marking over 60 years of progress and collective dedication.

“Nigeria’s maritime economy remains central to national growth, requiring sustained commitment and continuous development for a stronger future.

“All generations must unite to support and preserve the sector, honour past contributors, and work together for continued success,” he said.

Mrs Carol Ufere, Former General Manager, SERVICOM, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) while reviewing the book, noted that the book provided research-driven insights on ministries, agencies, industry leaders, reforms, and policy directions shaping Nigeria’s blue economy.

“It, emphasises governance, innovation, digitalisation, security architecture, and institutional strengthening.

“Its chapters examine Nigerian Nigerian Maritime and Security Agency, NPA, National Inland Waterways Authority, Nigerian Customs,Nigerian Railway Authority and others.

“It showcased achievements, challenges, and reforms required to enhance competitiveness, sustainability, multimodal integration, and Nigeria’s maritime transformation,” she said.

Earlier, Mr Tunde Ayodele, Chairman, MARAN, noted that the gathering was to celebrate individuals and institutions whose vision and service had shaped Nigeria’s maritime industry.

Ayodele said that the publication documents their contributions and supports progress in the marine and blue economy.

“Developed through extensive research, the book highlights outstanding leaders, private organisations, and agencies whose collective efforts drive reforms, innovation, and sectoral growth and serves as a credible reference for policymakers and practitioners.

“This first edition also recognises emerging talents and future contributors to the industry. We welcome you to this meaningful launch and appreciate your presence at this historic occasion,” he said.