The Nigerian Shipowners Association (NISA) has opened its new secretariat at 16 Payne Crescent, Apapa Lagos.
Speaking at the commissioning, the President of NISA, Sola Adewunmi, said the office is to create a place where members can interact and share ideas.
“This new office came as a result of the concerted efforts of the executives and friends like Prince Jide Babalola who garnered resources together to make the office space a reality. It will serve as a hub for collaboration, knowledge sharing and strategic planning.
“With this hub, ideas will flourish, partnership will be forged and innovative solutions will be conceptualized to address the pressing issues affecting the maritime sector,” he said.
Adewunmi enjoined NISA members to continue to advocate for the interest of the association, champion regulatory reforms and foster an environment that attracts investments and promote sustainable growth.
NISA Board of Trustees Chairman, Chief Isaac Jolapamo said the association, which started as ISA about three decades ago, has not been functioning well “due to one issue or the other”.
He said the shipping sector is underdeveloped because the resources meant to develop is being wasted by government officials.
He said if the shipowners were allowed to have input into the running of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), shipping development will not be the sixth item on the agency’s agenda.
A member of the association, Jegede Paul commended the executives for the new office.