The Director-General, (DG) Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, has described Nigerian women who work in the country’s maritime industry as competent, high flying professionals who stand strong, highly knowledgeable with deep understanding of the workings and intricacies of the industry.

Dr. Mobereola flanked by Nigerian women professionals in maritime

Speaking as a Special Guest at the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD), in lagos, the NIMASA Boss said, the theme of this year’s IWD, “Give to Gain”, aptly captures the role women play in Nigeria’s Maritime industry.

“When you give a woman a task, consider it done. It is true that women cannot exist without the men and vice versa, but when  women focuses on anything, they perform better than  men. At NIMASA  we intend to, very seriously, deliberately and very intentionally, encourage women in management positions,” Mobereola said

“There are some areas where you wonder why there are no women at all in maritime, and these are the areas we are focusing on to ensure that we bring  inclusivity to bear by bringing in more women who have proven their professionalism and dependability”

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Assuring and encouraging women to work harder, the NIMASA Boss  stated “We celebrate  women every day. This IWD is another opportunity to thank you for your invaluable contributions and urge you to do more.  The Blue Economy is in its infant stage, full of potentials and vast opportunities which many are unaware of. As  you work, learn, teach and impact others, growth and development is inevitable”

President of WISTA Nigeria, Dr Odunayo Ani, who doubled as Chairman of the Planning Committee, told participants during her speech that the full theme of the celebration “Give Compliance to Gain Longevity: Navigating Nigeria’s Tax Reform Opportunities for Women in Shipping and Global Trade” was  chosen to equip women with knowledge of the evolving tax landscape and position compliance as a strategic tool rather than a burden.

Her words “Our goal is to ensure women in the Nigerian maritime industry better understand the evolving tax environment and leverage it as a tool for growth, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
In the maritime and shipping sectors, compliance is often viewed merely as an obligation. However, today’s theme challenges us to see compliance in a different light—as a pathway to longevity, credibility, and long-term success. When businesses operate within transparent and well-structured regulatory systems, they attract investment, build resilience, and create opportunities for expansion beyond national borders”

Pharm. Khadijat Sheidu – Shabi (FPSN, FNIS, CMILT),  is the Chairperson Women in Logistics and Transport (WiLAT) Nigeria. In her remarks, she told the audience that  the theme “Give to Gain” perfectly reflects the Mission and Visions of WiLAT.

“When we give leadership, mentorship, empowerment, entrepreneurial support and social responsibility, we do more than uplift women. We strengthen industries. We expand opportunities and we build a more inclusive future. Let us continue to invest in women, support one another, and open doors for the next generation.
Together, we will not only give — we will all gain” she acclaimed

The President, Women In Maritime Africa (Wima Nigeria), Mrs. Nwaeze Theodora, in her presentation agreed that the  theme “Give To Gain,” is both powerful and deeply reflective of the journey of women across the world.

“Women have historically been givers, giving their time, their strength, their ideas, their resilience, and often their sacrifices to build families, institutions, communities, and nations. Yet, through that act of giving, societies gain stability, innovation, productivity, and progress. In the maritime sector, the story is no different. For decades, women in maritime have continued to give their commitment, professionalism, and intellect to an industry that was
once perceived as predominantly male. Through persistence and dedication, women have proven that their contribution is not optional but essential” she declared.

“With a good understanding of the provisions of the new tax Act, meticulous bookkeeping and records, women entrepreneurs and all business persons stand to benefit more from the new tax regime” Dr. Enitan said even as she declared her doors open to all for further clarifications and or consultations.