Marking International Women’s Day, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. Akutah Pius Akutah, Esq, MON, FCILT, Ph.D, celebrated women as vital architects of the nation’s marine ecosystem, emphasizing their role in driving sustainable industry growth.
In a statement released on Sunday, March 8, by the Council’s Head of Public Relations, Rebecca Adamu, stated that the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr. Pius Akutah, commemorated International Women’s Day by applauding the remarkable contributions of women across the maritime value chain. Dr. Akutah noted that their dedication, expertise, and leadership continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s future.
He highlighted the maritime sector’s evolving landscape, noting the surge of women excelling in pivotal roles—from port administration and shipping operations to marine law and policy development. Their impact, he added, is increasingly vital in driving systemic reforms and fostering a culture of institutional excellence across the industry.
However, he remarked that in an industry historically defined by men, women have emerged as pillars of strength and resilience. By consistently breaking barriers, they are redefining leadership through a potent blend of competence, professionalism, and unwavering commitment.
Dr. Akutah observed that women play a dual role in the sector—excelling in operations while simultaneously steering the policy conversations that define the industry. Their leadership in improving stakeholder engagement is vital to a robust regulatory environment that supports Nigeria’s trade ambitions. Diversity is the fuel for maritime innovation.
The Executive Secretary /CEO also asserted that embracing inclusive leadership and equal opportunity is the only way forward, highlighting that the empowerment of women is a pivotal business strategy rather than just a social obligation.
“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,” he said.
The NSC Chief commended the resilience of women across the maritime value chain, from shipping operations to regulatory oversight.
He highlighted their ability to maintain professional excellence while managing personal responsibilities, underscoring their vital role in strengthening the nation’s maritime infrastructure.
Dr. Akutah emphasized that women are not just leading; they are trailblazing. Their dedication is attracting a new generation of female professionals to the maritime sector, ensuring a diverse and robust talent pool capable of sustaining long-term sectoral growth.
He added 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 truly immeasurable, and your contributions remain essential to building a more innovative, inclusive, and future-ready maritime industry,” he added.
Dr. Akutah challenged industry stakeholders to prioritize leadership development for women and eliminate the structural obstacles to their success. Reaffirming his vision for the sector, he noted that a truly competitive Nigerian maritime industry is one where men and women work side-by-side, contributing diverse perspectives to drive sustainable national growth.
