Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria has reiterated its strong commitment to the successful implementation of the newly adopted National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, describing it as a critical pathway to national growth and sustainability.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement organized by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in Lagos, the President of WISTA Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani, lauded the policy as both “timely and visionary,” aligning with global trends in sustainable ocean governance, environmental protection, job creation, and economic diversification.
Dr. Ani applauded the Ministry for fostering an inclusive engagement process, bringing together actors from government, private sector, academia, and civil society. “As a key stakeholder in the maritime sector, WISTA Nigeria believes that strategic collaboration is indispensable to the successful implementation of this national blueprint,” she stated.
Highlighting WISTA Nigeria’s core values of inclusivity, gender equity, innovation, and capacity building, Dr. Ani emphasized the association’s readiness to contribute through advocacy, training, and partnerships. She also commended the Ministry’s recognition of the vital role women play in maritime development.
“WISTA Nigeria stands ready to support this agenda through advocacy, training, and strategic partnerships,” she said, adding that the association remains committed to working with the Honourable Minister and all stakeholders to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s blue economy for national prosperity and future generations.
The stakeholder forum is part of the Ministry’s broader effort to galvanize nationwide support for the rollout of the National Marine and Blue Economy Policy, aimed at maximizing the country’s vast ocean resources in a sustainable and inclusive manner.
