Maritime agencies, including the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency and the Nigerian Ports Authority, have applauded the contributions of women to the development of the Nigerian maritime industry.

In a goodwill message to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day with the theme ‘Give to Gain’, the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, celebrated the strength, expertise, and invaluable contributions of women to the sector, emphasising that the industry has gained progress, innovation, and sustainable growth through their efforts.

“I celebrate your strength, expertise, and invaluable contributions to our maritime industry. The theme #GiveToGain reflects your daily impact. Through your professionalism, leadership, and resilience across seagoing, regulatory, technical, and administrative roles, you give excellence, and our sector gains progress, innovation, and sustainable growth,” Mobereola stated.

He further commended the dedication of women in the industry and reaffirmed his commitment to “a maritime industry where every woman is empowered to lead and thrive”.

Meanwhile, in a statement over the weekend, the Managing Director of the NPA, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, noted that he deliberately prioritised gender equality in key appointments, starting with his aides and technical assistants. “Women hold 60 per cent of these roles, with men making up the remaining 40 per cent,” he said, adding that this intentional step underscores the NPA’s commitment to advancing women’s participation and success across the maritime industry.

According to him, the NPA proudly celebrates the resilience, dedication, and invaluable contributions of women in the maritime sector, including firefighting, security, piloting, engineering, hydrography, administration, and maritime-support services such as aids to navigation.

“These remarkable women are excelling even in roles that traditionally demand masculine kinds of strength. We salute the remarkable women of NPA and beyond who continue to drive progress, break barriers, and shape a more equitable future for the sector’, he added.

International Women’s Day is a global observance that seeks to draw attention to challenges faced by women and the need to ensure gender equity. This year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain’, focuses on investing in women through resources, education, and mentorship to create a stronger, more equitable society, highlighting the fact that empowering women brings collective benefits: economies, communities, and workplaces all grow when women thrive.