Olufunmilayo Olotu, a former Port Manager of the Lagos Port Complex Apapa, recently took the spotlight as an independent panellist at the “Maritime Security 2024: Innovations and Partnerships for the Future” conference in Cabo Verde.
Hosted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the event gathered global maritime leaders to address urgent issues in maritime security and the blue economy.
Held from October 8-9 in Cidade da Praia, Cabo Verde, the conference was co-hosted by the Cabo Verde government with support from the German government, UNITAR, and the Atlantic Centre.
Olotu contributed her unique insights to the panel titled “West and Central Africa: Opportunities for Increased Maritime Traffic,” where she underscored the region’s vast untapped potential for maritime growth and trade.
Drawing from over 34 years of experience with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Olotu’s in-depth perspective on maritime affairs brought significant value to the discussions. She emphasised how the region could leverage its strategic location and natural resources to enhance its maritime sector, attract global investment, and foster sustainable development.
The conference provided an invaluable platform for Olotu and other international experts to share innovative strategies and foster partnerships aimed at strengthening maritime security, combating illegal fishing, and promoting sustainable ocean practices.
The event underscored a collaborative commitment to protecting global waterways and advancing the blue economy, with a focus on security, sustainability, and economic prosperity.
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