The convener of Lagos International Maritime Week (LIMWEEK) 2026, Oritsematosan Edodo-Emore, has called for the practical implementation of maritime policies to drive industry growth, strengthen waterway security, and position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in Africa.

Ms Edodo-Emore made the call on Tuesday in Lagos at the opening of the three-day event, with the theme “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence in Africa”.

She said the theme was designed to move stakeholders beyond policy formulation to practical solutions that can transform the maritime value chain.

According to her, it also aligns with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) World Maritime Day focus and provides a platform to tackle critical challenges confronting the maritime industry.

Ms Edodo-Emore said the security of local and international waterways remained crucial to the seamless movement of cargo and the expansion of trade.

She said the event had attracted major maritime stakeholders, including the Nigerian Navy, the Gulf of Guinea Commission, the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) and the Damen Shipyard of South Africa.

The convener said the conference would examine strategies for rescuing insolvent shipping companies within the framework of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL).

She said Warren Waegh of the University of Cape Town would lead discussions on sustainable shipping and the future of Africa’s maritime industry.

Ms Edodo-Emore said the programme was structured to bridge the gap between policy and implementation by equipping industry stakeholders with practical knowledge and solutions to improve maritime operations.

She said participants would also examine emerging challenges and develop strategies for building a safer, more competitive and sustainable maritime sector.

The convener announced scholarships for 12 students from Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ilorin and Lagos State University as part of efforts to nurture the next generation of maritime professionals.

She said the scholarship beneficiaries would also receive mentorship support to enhance their career development and industry exposure.

Ms Edodo-Emore expressed optimism that the three-day event would produce practical recommendations to strengthen maritime governance, security, sustainability and business development across Nigeria and Africa.

(NAN)