WIMA Nigeria Begins New Era as Macfoy Hands Over to Nwaeze

WIMA Nigeria Begins New Era as Macfoy Hands Over to Nwaeze

The Nigerian chapter of African Women in Maritime (WIMA) has ushered in a new leadership era following a peaceful and well-coordinated election that marked the end of one administration and the beginning of another.

After four years at the helm, the outgoing President, Mrs. Rollens Macfoy, formally handed over leadership to Mrs. Theodora Nwaeze, closing a tenure widely described as stable, united, and impactful.

Macfoy’s administration was noted for promoting harmony, women-to-women support, and principled leadership, steering the association without internal disputes or controversies. In her valedictory address, she expressed gratitude to God, WIMA ambassadors, mentors, and members of her Executive Council, whom she praised for working collectively with a shared sense of purpose throughout her tenure.

Although stepping down as President of WIMA Nigeria, Macfoy remains active within the organisation, having assumed a continental role as Vice President, WIMA Africa (Anglophone).

Emerging as the new President, Mrs. Theodora Nwaeze outlined an ambitious and forward-looking agenda focused on empowerment, innovation, collaboration, and national visibility for women in the maritime sector.

In her inaugural remarks, Nwaeze emphasised a shift from ceremonial engagements to sustainable capacity building, expanded nationwide presence, digital transformation, and stronger participation in Nigeria’s blue economy discourse.

“This administration intends to move WIMA Nigeria from events to enduring capacity building; from quiet work to national visibility; from concentration in one location to true nationwide presence; and from participation to influence,” she said.

She further noted that her leadership would prioritise mentorship programmes, leadership development pipelines, digital skills, and strategic partnerships across Nigeria, Africa, and the global maritime space.

Nwaeze will lead alongside a newly inaugurated Executive Council comprising Mrs. Temilade Ogunniyi as Vice President; Mrs. Obiageli Benjamin as Secretary; Mrs. Yetunde Olori-Oladipo as Assistant Secretary; Mrs. Onome Joy Monije as Treasurer; Ms. Favour Kalu as Assistant Treasurer; Mrs. Lola Adesokan as Public Relations Officer; and Mrs. Aisha Imukoro as Assistant Public Relations Officer.

The event attracted prominent stakeholders in the maritime sector, including Mrs. Jean Chiazor Anishere, SAN, President of the Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN); Chief (Mrs.) Carol Ufere, Co-Founder of the Committee of Friends for Humanity (COFFHA); Mrs. Odunayo Ani, President of WISTA Nigeria; and Mrs. Gloria Kanabe, Managing Director of Hudson Gee Nigeria Limited, among others.

The transition marks a renewed chapter for WIMA Nigeria as the association positions itself for greater influence, expanded reach, and deeper impact within Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy landscape.