Joyce Mmereole Okoli
SIFAX Group, Starzs Investments Company Ltd, Elkins Marine Training International and several distinguished maritime organisations and professionals have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to youth development in Nigeria’s maritime sector at the prestigious Maritime Youth Empowerment (MAYE) Awards.
The awards were presented by Platform Reporters during the 10th Annual Maritime Students and Youth Conference held recently in Lagos, bringing together key stakeholders committed to shaping the future of the nation’s maritime industry.
The MAYE Awards, conferred once every five years, celebrate organisations and individuals whose initiatives, mentorship programmes and investments have significantly advanced the growth, development and empowerment of young professionals within the maritime sector.
Speaking on the significance of the awards, the organisers noted that the recognition is aimed at encouraging greater commitment to capacity building, mentorship and career development for young Nigerians seeking opportunities in the maritime industry.
The awards were presented in two categories—Organisations and Individuals, reflecting the diverse contributions driving sustainable growth and professional excellence across the sector.
In the organisational category, SIFAX Group emerged among the leading award recipients in recognition of its sustained investments in human capital development and contributions to Nigeria’s maritime and logistics industry.
Also honoured was Starzs Investments Company Ltd for its role in supporting maritime development and youth-focused initiatives within the sector.
Widescope International Logistics Ltd received recognition for its contributions to freight forwarding, logistics innovation and support for emerging maritime professionals.
Maritime law firm, Akabogu & Associates, was honoured for its commitment to maritime legal advocacy, industry development and professional capacity building.
Government agencies recognised for their impact on maritime training and seafarer development included the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC).
Training and capacity development institutions that received awards were Elkins Marine Training International, Sea Transport Services Nigeria Limited and L.T.T. Coastal and Marine Services Limited.
Professional bodies recognised for promoting industry standards and mentorship included the Association of Marine Engineers and Surveyors and the Nigerian Association of Master Mariners.
Other organisational awardees were the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR) and the Nigerian Shipowners Association (NISA), acknowledged for their contributions to maritime research, policy advocacy and industry growth.
In the individual category, renowned maritime entrepreneur and industry leader, Engr. Greg Ogbeifun, led the list of recipients in recognition of his enduring contributions to indigenous shipping development and mentorship.
Other distinguished awardees included Mrs. Eunice Ngozi Ezeoke, Capt. Sunday Umoren, Chief Osuala E. Nwagbara, Capt. Segun Enitan Akanbi and Capt. Dr. Fola Ojutalayo.
Also recognised were Mrs. Ify Anazonwu-Akarele, Capt. Warredi Enisuoh and Dr. Mrs. Felicia Chinwe Mogo for their commitment to professional excellence and their roles in nurturing the next generation of maritime practitioners.
As recipients received their awards, stakeholders commended the initiative for spotlighting individuals and organisations whose efforts continue to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime industry while creating opportunities for young professionals to thrive.
The organisers expressed optimism that the recognition would inspire greater collaboration among industry players towards building a more inclusive, skilled and globally competitive maritime workforce for the future.