Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) is poised to launch a groundbreaking book project titled “50 Drivers of Nigerian Maritime and Blue Economy,” aimed at enhancing public awareness of the sector’s potential.
Several prominent government agencies, including the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), and Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), have committed to the project.
High-profile industry figures such as Prince Olayiwola Shittu, former President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), and Chief Isaac Jolapamo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Nigeria Shipowners Association (NISA), have also shown their support. Other notable contributors include Dame Jean Chiazor Anishere (SAN), Principal Partner at Jean Chiazor and Partners.
MARAN, acting as the industry’s watchdog, has expressed concern over the lack of public knowledge regarding the government’s objectives for the newly established Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
The association’s president, Mr. Godfrey Bivbere, emphasized that the book aims to chronicle the efforts of regulators, operators, organizations, and individuals dedicated to advancing the maritime sector.
“It will focus on the inputs and impacts of outstanding individuals and organizations to the transformation of the Nigerian Maritime industry.
“Documenting such contributions of individuals and corporate bodies will engender healthy rivalry among stakeholders and fast track development of the sector and the new Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
“The book will in the future serve as a referral and research material for students in higher institutions of learning” Bivbere stated
The book is expected to be launched by the third quarter of 2024.
With limited slots still open, MARAN invites interested stakeholders to participate in this project by contacting the association via email at maranreporters@gmail.com or by phone at 08023058754 or 08100321443.