The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), through its Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, have advocated digital transformation as a key driver to enhance women’s participation in West Africa’s maritime industry. The DG, represented by Executive Director Chudi Offodile at a regional symposium in Lagos—co-organized by NIMASA and Ghana’s Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC)—he highlighted how digitalization serves as a “great equalizer,” shifting focus from physical strength to “intellectual agility and technical precision.” This enables women in rural West African areas to access global e-learning and training modules, dismantling traditional barriers.
The symposium, supported by Denmark’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Inter-Regional Coordination Centre (ICC) for Gulf of Guinea maritime safety, convened senior officials, maritime professionals, academics, women’s groups, and media from across West Africa. Key discussion themes included:
- Digital innovation in maritime governance and smart logistics.
- Gender inclusion in security operations.
- Capacity building for women in digital maritime skills.
- Policy frameworks for gender equality and empowerment.
KAIPTC Deputy Commandant Brigadier General Zibrim Ayorrogo Bawah emphasized the Gulf of Guinea’s strategic importance, noting that women’s historical exclusion due to socio-cultural barriers limits diverse perspectives essential for effective governance. NIMASA reaffirmed its pledge for inclusive development, aiming to make Nigeria a benchmark for gender inclusivity and digital excellence. Participants are set to foster regional collaboration for sustainable maritime progress, including a group photo marking the event.
