Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association Nigeria (WISTA Nigeria) has re-elected Dr. Odunayo Ani as President during its 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on April 30 in Lagos. The event brought together industry stakeholders across the maritime and logistics sectors to review the association’s progress, strengthen governance structures, and set new strategic priorities.
Dr. Ani, who also serves as Director of Finance at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), was returned for a second term alongside a refreshed executive committee. Members described the outcome as a strong vote of confidence following what many considered a transformative first tenure for the association.
Speaking after her re-election, Dr. Ani expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her team, saying:
“We are deeply honoured by the confidence reposed in us. Our commitment is unwavering—to elevate the role of women in the maritime industry and to position WISTA Nigeria as a platform for excellence, collaboration, and measurable impact,” she said.
The AGM also reaffirmed WISTA Nigeria’s commitment to transparency and sound governance, as members scrutinized and adopted the association’s financial reports. Delegates praised the executive for maintaining high standards of financial accountability.
In her address, Dr. Ani presented a detailed report of activities over the past term, highlighting key milestones such as strengthened collaboration with WISTA International, increased participation of Nigerian professionals in global committees, enhanced advocacy for women in coastal communities, and the successful celebration of WISTA Nigeria’s 30th anniversary.
The newly elected executive committee comprises seasoned professionals drawn from diverse areas of the maritime and logistics value chain:
• Vice President: Captain Edidiong Akpanebe-Sola Obalo, Marine Coordinator/Pilot, Renaissance African Energy Company
• General Secretary: Lillian Nneji, Assistant Director, Reform Coordination, Strategic Management & Blue Economy, NIMASA
• Treasurer: Hannah Adaba, Deputy Director, Nigerian Shippers’ Council
• Public Relations Officer: Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike, Director General, Nigerian Chamber of Shipping
• Assistant General Secretary: Toyin Oyeleke, Managing Director, Estymuels Integrated Services Ltd.
• Assistant Treasurer: Aisha Cole, Assistant Editor, News Agency of Nigeria
Looking ahead, WISTA Nigeria announced that preparations are in top gear for the 8th WISTA Africa Regional Conference, scheduled to hold from June 25–26, 2026 at Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos. The conference will convene prominent maritime stakeholders across the continent to deliberate on policy, innovation, capacity development, and the evolving role of women in the sector.
Dr. Ani emphasized the significance of the upcoming conference, stating:
“Hosting the WISTA Africa Regional Conference in Lagos is both a privilege and an opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s leadership in maritime affairs. We are committed to delivering a world-class event that drives meaningful conversations and actionable outcomes,” she added.
The 2026 AGM reinforced WISTA Nigeria’s standing as a leading voice for women in maritime, anchored on strong leadership, accountability, and a bold, forward-looking vision.