The Nigerian maritime industry marked a historic moment with the official launch of a groundbreaking publication titled “Fifty Drivers of the Nigerian Maritime and Blue Economy”, authored by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN). The event, held on Thursday in Lagos, brought together top industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to honour the individuals and institutions shaping Nigeria’s maritime future.

Chairing the event, Capt. Emmanuel Ihenacho, a veteran maritime expert and former Minister of Interior, underscored the sector’s critical role in national development. “Nigeria’s maritime industry stands as a cornerstone of our economy—an engine for trade, commerce, and sustainable growth,” he stated.

Capt. Ihenacho traced the evolution of the sector through key milestones, including the establishment of the Nigerian National Shipping Line (1959), the Nigerian Maritime Authority (1988), and NIMASA (2007). He also highlighted transformative policies such as the Cabotage regime, the Maritime Silk Road, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which he described as a “game-changing opportunity” for Nigeria to tap into a market of 1.3 billion people with a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion.

In his welcome address, Pastor Tunde Ayodele, Chairman of MARAN’s Caretaker Committee, described the book as a celebration of the visionaries who have propelled Nigeria’s maritime sector forward. “Today, we stand on the threshold of history to acknowledge and appreciate those whose vision, dedication and leadership have leadership have shaped our maritime sector the growth of our national growth economy,” he said.

Ayodele revealed that the book was the result of two years of rigorous research and collaboration. “It profiles not only influential individuals but also key private sector players, government agencies, associations, and unions that have collectively driven innovation and reform in the sector.

“This publication represents a bold step by our association to document and spotlight excellence within the maritime industry. It is MARAN’s unbiased, carefully researched contribution to strengthening institutional memory within the sector. Beyond profiling outstanding individuals, this edition also features some private sector organisations, strategic government agencies, associations, and unions whose roles have been instrumental in advancing Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy. Their inclusion underscores the collaborative ecosystem that drives progress in our maritime domain,” he added.

The launch event was met with widespread acclaim from industry stakeholders, who praised MARAN for its initiative in documenting the sector’s legacy. Capt. Ihenacho encouraged young maritime professionals and students to study the book, calling it an invaluable resource for understanding the forces shaping Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.