International Women’s Day: NSC Boss Akutah Celebrates Women Driving Nigeria’s Maritime Growth

International Women’s Day: NSC Boss Akutah Celebrates Women Driving Nigeria’s Maritime Growth

The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Pius Akutah, has celebrated women in Nigeria’s maritime industry, describing them as key drivers of innovation, resilience and progress across the country’s marine and logistics ecosystem.

In a message marking the global celebration of International Women’s Day, Dr. Akutah commended the growing impact of women across the maritime value chain, noting that their expertise, leadership and dedication are helping to shape the future of the sector.

He observed that the Nigerian maritime industry has witnessed increasing participation of women in critical professional roles, including port administration, shipping operations, logistics management, maritime regulation, freight forwarding, marine law and policy development.

According to him, women are steadily making their mark by driving reforms and strengthening institutional excellence within the industry.

Dr. Akutah also highlighted the resilience displayed by women working in an industry historically dominated by men, noting that many have continued to break barriers while redefining leadership standards through competence, professionalism and commitment.

He said their contributions extend beyond operational roles, as they are also influencing policy discussions, improving stakeholder engagement and helping to strengthen the regulatory framework that supports efficient trade and maritime activities in Nigeria.

The NSC boss stressed that the maritime sector thrives when diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities are encouraged.

“Today, we celebrate the strength, resilience and invaluable contributions of women in the maritime industry. Your dedication and hard work continue to play a vital role in the growth and advancement of the sector,” Akutah stated.

He further noted that women working across Nigeria’s ports, shipping companies, logistics firms, regulatory agencies and maritime institutions have consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism while balancing demanding careers with family responsibilities.

Dr. Akutah added that their commitment to excellence is inspiring more young women to pursue careers in maritime, shipping and logistics, thereby expanding the talent pool needed to sustain the sector’s long-term growth.

He reaffirmed that the Nigerian Shippers’ Council remains committed to supporting policies and initiatives that promote gender inclusion, professional development and equal opportunities within the maritime ecosystem.

According to him, creating platforms that encourage women’s participation in maritime governance, trade facilitation and logistics management will strengthen the sector and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in global maritime trade.

“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we honour the women who continue to inspire future generations. Your impact is immeasurable, and your contributions remain essential to building a more innovative, inclusive and future-ready maritime industry,” he added.

Dr. Akutah also called on stakeholders across the maritime and logistics sector to support initiatives that empower women, encourage leadership development and remove structural barriers limiting their full participation.

He emphasised that the future of Nigeria’s maritime industry depends on harnessing the talents, ideas and leadership of both men and women working together to build a stronger and globally competitive sector.