Picture: The book “50 Drivers of the Marine and Blue Economy’, smoking hot
The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) unveiled a landmark publication yesterday, celebrating individuals and institutions that shape the country’s maritime and blue economy landscape.
The new book, titled “Fifty Drivers of the Nigerian Marine and Blue Economy,” was launched in Lagos on Thursday, marking a major milestone in documenting the nation’s maritime evolution. The event, themed “Driving the Blue Agenda: Recognizing Champions Steering Nigeria’s Marine Economy,” brought together industry stakeholders to honour innovators and reformers driving growth across the sector.
Chairman of the launch and former Minister of Interior, Capt. Emmanuel Ihenacho, described Nigeria’s maritime industry as a “vital component” of the national economy. He emphasized that, with proper harnessing, the sector has immense potential for economic growth and national development.
Ihenacho also acknowledged the foundational contributions of past and present maritime leaders, tracing the sector’s evolution from the establishment of the National Shipping Line in 1959 to the birth of NIMASA in 2007.
“The book launch theme is carefully chosen to spotlight the individuals, institutions, and innovations driving the country’s Marine and Blue Economy,” he said.
Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr. Pius Ukeyima Akutah, who was represented by Assistant Director of Operations, Mrs. Juliana Saka, described the publication as a significant milestone. He applauded MARAN for demonstrating vision and professionalism by documenting the contributions of key players in the sector.
“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.” Akutah said.
Also speaking, former NSC Executive Secretary, Mr. Hassan Bello in his goodwill message, described the celebration as timely, given the sector’s over 60 years of steady progress. He noted that Nigeria’s maritime economy remains central to national growth.
“All generations must unite to support and preserve the sector, honour past contributors, and work together for continued success,” he said.
In her review of the publication, former SERVICOM General Manager at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mrs. Carol Ufere, said the book offers research-driven insights into ministries, agencies, industry leaders, reforms, and policy directions shaping Nigeria’s blue economy. She highlighted its focus on governance, innovation, digitalisation, security architecture, and institutional strengthening.
According to her, the chapters examine the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), NPA, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Nigeria Customs Service, Nigerian Railway Authority, and other critical institutions, while showcasing achievements, challenges, and reforms needed to enhance competitiveness and sustainability.
Speaking earlier in his opening speech, MARAN’s Caretaker Committee Chairman, Mr. Tunde Ayodele, said the launch was organised to honour individuals and institutions whose service and vision have shaped Nigeria’s maritime trajectory. He noted that the publication not only documents their contributions but also reinforces ongoing efforts to advance the marine and blue economy.
Ayodele described the launch as a historic moment for the maritime media community and the broader sector, expressing appreciation to all who attended.
“Developed through extensive research, the book highlights outstanding leaders, private organisations, and agencies whose collective efforts drive reforms, innovation, and sectoral growth,” he said. “This first edition also recognises emerging talents and future contributors to the industry,” Ayodele said.
Picture: Former Interior Minister Captain Emmanuel Iheanacho unveils the book as MARAN Caretaker Committee Chairman Tunde Ayodele in green and former ES Nigeria Shippers Council Barrister Hassan Bello in Blue watch.
