Momentum is gathering for the 10th edition of the Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime Conference (TAAM) as the Maritime Forum, University of Lagos, in partnership with SIFAX Group, prepares to host West Africa’s largest student-led maritime conference.
Scheduled for July 20–21, 2026, the landmark conference is expected to attract more than 2,000 participants from government, academia, the maritime industry, corporate organisations and the media, marking a decade of impactful conversations, capacity building and youth engagement in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
This year’s anniversary edition is themed “Ten Tides of Impact: Raising a Generation to Position Nigeria as Africa’s Blue Giant,” reflecting the conference’s enduring commitment to nurturing future maritime leaders while advancing policy dialogue and industry collaboration.
Over the past 10 years, SIFAX Group has remained the conference’s foremost partner, playing a pivotal role in transforming TAAM into a respected platform for maritime education, innovation, networking and professional development.
The conference will feature keynote addresses, high-level panel discussions and policy conversations with distinguished stakeholders, including Dr. Emeka Akabogu; the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola; the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola; the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi; the President of the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani; representatives of the Danish Consulate; and other notable leaders from the maritime ecosystem.
Speaking ahead of the event, Dare Tunde Damilola, President of the Maritime Forum, University of Lagos, described the 10th edition as more than a celebration of longevity.
“This anniversary conference is a legacy platform that reinforces collaboration between academia and industry while preparing the next generation of maritime professionals and policy leaders. Beyond celebrating our journey, we are creating opportunities for meaningful conversations on the future of Nigeria’s maritime sector, encouraging innovation, strengthening stakeholder engagement and connecting students with industry mentors and career opportunities.”
Also speaking, Olumuyiwa Akande, Group Head, Corporate Communications, SIFAX Group, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the initiative.
“Our support for TAAM over the years is driven by our belief that the future of Nigeria’s maritime industry depends on deliberate investment in young people. The conference provides an important bridge between academic learning and real-world industry practice, while inspiring students to explore careers and leadership opportunities within the maritime sector.”
One of the major highlights of this year’s programme will be the 10th Anniversary Blueprint Debate Competition, one of TAAM’s signature intellectual engagements. Since its introduction in 2016, the competition has evolved into a nationally recognised platform where university students debate critical issues bordering on maritime development, economic growth, governance and public policy.